With both Harrier and Nimrod, I wonder if part of the problem was that those capabilities were seen as being in support of the RN, yet not owned by the RN so Their Lordships could not save them?
Was it assumed that since CVF was key to the future, no sane Government would axe the current carrier strike capability, due to the problems involved in preparing for the future, as mentioned
here?
Likewise, was it assumed that Nimrod's role in supporting the deterrent was so important that it would be safe?