Pheasant,
You missed my point, I never said that the RAF or AAC were best placed to do the role, I simply said that it wasn't RN only. I also specifically avoided saying Aircrew, because I understand your well placed point about the stoker upwards.
I feel, however, that you are being too stovepiped in capability terms, especially in this era of financial constraint. Your hypothesis suggests that Maritime/littoral capability can only/best be provided by a single Service - RN; with sufficient funds available, I might agree. But with the constraints being imposed on HM Forces, we need to do things smarter and I believe there are ways to achieve the goal and deliver the capabilities for much less cost - unfortunately, it would mean changing/rationalising the current systems - stovepiped capabilities just don't cut the mustard anymore.
Tough times ahead for all.