(since no-one would be stupid enough to suggest conducting an AAR prod while still chasing down an SSN. I hope...)
I knew it was a bad dream and surely did not happen, 12 hour cold/cold barrier with a mid on-station refuel at 20 West. I must re-write history, and my flying log book.
I am sure that the UK will eventually go for the P8, it is the only realistic option in terms of NATO/USA commitments.
The P8 could potentially fly for 11-12 hours un-refuelled, depending on ZFW. This is significantly better than the Nimrod MR2, and probably similar to the MRA4, but I stand to be corrected. I would also add that it is not fun flying for 10 hours or more in a 737, it is a lot more cramped than a P3, and similar space-wise to the MR2. To take additional flight crew to augment for longer missions will also add a not insignificant weight penalty to a 737/P8.
Y_G