ramp_up
But the real question is why are we looking at axing the Puma 2 and giving the Merlin to the Navy. Wouldn't it be better to consider getting rid of something less capabale eg wildcat and keeping the Puma, then if we really must give the Navy the 101. Makes common sense to me.
Would I be correct in thinking your reply is based on securing your own job in the back of SH as opposed to considering what is best for MoD? Wildcat will be very capable (once we've got funding to stick all the right bits back on it after they were costed out....). Puma 2= Job security and has very little to do with 'enhancing capability'. Let me know if Puma 2 could carry out recce with Apache or act as HMA off the back of a boat (without falling over).