OK so I'm a civvy type who should know better than to pop up here with a darn fool questionette
But. DefenceWeb today states
It will also have strategic surveillance and intelligence platforms as part of our broader ISTAR capability, including: E-3D Sentry AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) to provide airborne command, control and surveillance; Rivet Joint signals intelligence aircraft to provide independent strategic intelligence gathering; and a range of remotely piloted air systems.
Is there absolutely no chance that MRA4's couldn't be reconfigured as a SIGINT platform so negating the requirement to buy old Boeings for Rivet Joint?
I'm not going to duck, or don a flack jacket. You lot do brave daily - I'm sure I can do it for an evening.
Sir George Cayley