Good afternoon everyone,
I’m writing a short general dissertation on FW maritime aviation and would very much like your thoughts on the following question:
“Does the UK need a dedicated FW MPA and if so should it be operated by the military?”
The possible options that spring to my mind could be:
Yes and it should be operated by the RAF as the Nimrod MR1/2 was because…
Yes but it should be operated by the RN because….
Yes but it should be operated by a civil agency like the coastguard because……
No, the current contingency as stated by the government (use of RN ASW assets, C-130 and Allies) is sufficient.
I’m aware of the on-going Nimrod threads and do not want this to turn in to an argument on the rights and wrongs of the withdrawal of the MR2 and the cancellation of the MRA4. This is a general dissertation on whether there is still a requirement for a dedicated LRMPA and who should operate it.
For what it’s worth my own background is as Nimrod MR2 aircrew (5000+ Hrs) and up until SDSR some MRA4 experience.
I’m particularly interested in hearing from anyone with knowledge of the Royal Netherlands Navy and how they coped/are coping following the transfer of their P3C’s to Germany and Portugal. Also how effective have the Coastguard Dash 8's been out in the Antilles.
I’m more than happy for anyone to PM me and thank you in advance for sharing any thoughts you have on the subject.
Regards to all.
D.