Jim,
You've been around this industry a long time and it's obvious you are a very passionate participant - more power to your elbow,
but let's add some fresh air to this draggy thread shall we?
The chopper,s selected are inbound come hell or high water. What is the point of slagging them off or questioning their ability? They won't change.
When will people realise there is more to this process than the right a/c for the job???
People, places, prices: this is what counts and the nearest a/c will do.
The 189 is going to rejuvenate down south and for that matter the British helicopter industry which currently is NIL.[To speak of]. Thousands of jobs guaranteed, major affiliation with an EU partner (Italy) whether we like it or not. You rub my back and I'll rub yours......
The day someone buys the right product for the specific job in hand is the day that company goes to the wall!
The MoD was absolutely crap at
Pr (still is) no qualified experts running that department hence a dreadful performance. Watch as the Bristow
PR machine spins up over the next few years and turns this 'process' into a massive success story. Of course the government will not shy away from being a part of that methinks.
It will be a success make no bones about it.
Modern equipment, the best helicopter company in the world and some of the best "hand picked" pilots globally. Watch and smile!