EW 73
Being a 3rd seater myself I am well aware of the benefits of a 3 crew flight deck especially when operating low level in the Nimrod however, we were discussing low cost and quick procurement options for a UK MPA platform.
P3s are old aeroplanes that would require a refit and probably cost more overall with support equipment for the air vehicle as well as the on board kit not to mention the time scales involved.
The UK has already paid for the aircraft ( C130J) which means they would require the MPA fit only timescales would also be favourable. No one is suggesting they shut down engines like a P3 or a Nimrod, frankly shutting down perfectly serviceable engines whilst operating at 200' used to scare the S*** out of me!
