A & C,
Yes, that is a very good point I had not considered.
There is very basic control on an A320, with no computers.
The cabin size is much better from a passenger point of view.
As has been pointed out to me, any order for a P8 will not arrive till 2018 at the earliest.
Until the advent of the B787. Boeing has got the balance of old and new technology, about right, IMHO.
I believe the Japanese have taken the right route with the Kawasaki, rather than converting an existing type.
Any conversion is a compromise.
Which brings me back to the A400M.
It has the performance, the space, but is probably too big?
As I keep saying, no politicians will address this problem until it is too late.
With the Eurozone money problems, nothing will be done.
Perhaps in the end, it doesn't really matter?
I would like to see an elegant solution, which the Japanese appear to have achieved.
What would I have done if I had, the power and influence?
I would have made sure the Nimrod would be successful, and sacked 90% of the managers.
Hunting nukes, boomers, whatever you want to call them, is, a tricky business. Given, it is my belief, that, these things are where the real threat is coming from. Especially if one is a Super Carrier.
A 12 hour on station endurance, is essential.
Last edited by Stuffy; 19th Mar 2013 at 23:26.