Of course the only thing being considered is COST. Look at all the over fiasco's PFI for hospitals etc.
They want to cheaply cover an international responsibility to provide a maritime rescue service oh and the usual foolish walkers(which should pay by the way but that's a separate issue)
I am pleased its only 15 years. Like earlier posters have said, the badge on the outside of the chopper will change but 90% of the people will be the same.
By the way the wages will have to compete with the oil and gas ones.This isn't the Iberian peninsular.
Merry chrimbo and chill out , for once I'm with crab.