Just for clarity, I understand that the programme has met all financial and completion milestones since financial close of the PFI contract in 2008. The entry to service is definitely later than originally planned and expected by the RAF; this is primarily due to the very long procurement activity leading up to contract award.
Also, FSTA is not yet fitted with cockpit armour, but will be capable of being fitted with defensive aids from aircraft 1. Both these facts have been reported in the media.
It will be interesting to watch progress going forward....