"After all the above, the sensible solution seems to go for :
- F-18 : pretty good capabilities, pretty cheap (at least compared to the F-35), can last until 2030 (and probably beyond as is usual)"
Aircrew trained/training on the type on US Navy exchange postings. Super Hornet can be wired for EW (as requested by the RAAF) and can also be configured for AAR in addition to the strike and air defence roles. We would obtain cost savings if bought off the shelf along with the US Navy's continuing orders from Boeing. It's available as either a one or two seater depending on the customers requirements.
The issue is not cost but that a buy brings no benefit to UK industry. So to handle this delicate political issue, why not seek offsets like some bare airframes from Boeing to then fit, if practical, at least some of the electronics paid for but now being left over from MR4A?
But the F-35 is next generation and has first day of war capability I hear you say?
Now where did I put those pills
