With an increasing number promoted to SO2 in the late 20s, early 30s, how are these pers going to be usefully employed until they are 55?
SO2 is not a rank, it is a staff position!
I don't hold that an increasing number of youthful promotions is a problem; they allow Manning to identify career high-flyers early, and give a chance to leave at their mid-career option for those who fail to shine at Sqn Ldr level. That 'chance' might become enforced, as automatic service to 55 for Sqn Ldrs is pretty much guaranteed to disappear in the next few years, IMHO. Some will be 'assimilated' at age 40 but I would expect others to get the boot at that point.