Nimrod MRA 4 could be the best LRMP aircraft; the RAF could field the best crews - it matters not. If the balloon goes up, with a fleet of just nine, you'll be taking a knife to a gunfight.
You are, with respect, missing the point a tad here Rex.
The UK has regularly gained disproportionate influence (eg access to 'other' capabilities) by offering up small numbers of highly capable assets. Nimrod R1 (of which we have only 3), Sentinel (5) and E-3D (7) are good examples.
ASW is a particularly perishable capability in terms of both skill sets and technology. Many nations who on paper own MPA platforms are realistically limited to ASuW only; this is therefore not something that can be relied upon from a coalition.
Do not therefore discount the disproportionate influence that a handful of MRA4 could bring for the UK.
Regards,
MM