In 1990, the RAF had 33 fast-jet squadrons; in 2003, 17. Today, the number stands at 12: seven Tornado, three Typhoon and two Harrier squadrons, plus the offensive firepower of a growing fleet of Reaper UAVs. By April, Britain will be down to eight fast-jet squadrons, thanks to the retirement of the Harriers and the shelving of two Tornado units.
What a dreadful situation - by April 2011 the RAF will have less than 25% of the fast-jet force it had immediately before GW1. When we also had many other capabilities which are currently 'on holiday'.
What is the plan for all the redundant helicopters the UK will have after the Afghanistan pull-out? And what will all the nice new AT/AAR aircraft be used for?