WEBF,
The training and currency issues since the switch to CV variant have in many ways simplified the issues in the post-Harrier era.
We are no longer arguing that we have a gap in continuity from current VSTOL to future STOVL; more that we need (more than ever) to focus and maintain our efforts on 'aircraft operations in the maritime environment' as opposed specifically to Harriers off the Invincible Class (much as that would continue to feed the beast.)
The USN training will encompass more than just pilots. Apparently, there are many more people involved in the flying of aircraft to the deck than just the pilot.
Developing and infusing big deck ops into the best of our current crop of bridge watchkeepers; chock heads; badgers; gollies; clankies; METOCs etc over the next decade is just as important to safely assure the delivery of joint effect from future flat decks.
If there are those reading who don't understand what some of the names above are or what they do, don't worry; there's an organization that does. And they offer courses that some from outside will be invited to take up (the entry criteria is usually to be 18-21 years of age and the course lasts around 20 years of continual assessment.)
FB