Allow me to add a bit more to the RFI @ #27. It was really prompted by the A400M flight test thread. Airbus appear to be pushing the AD capability of their machine. They talk of some really big loads, far bigger than anything we ever put on an MSP or HSP.
Ancient Aviator spoke of the requirement for a HSP in 82 that never came off. Bythebackdoor spoke of two piggy back TUMs on MSP. We certainly don't have these capabilities on the J. I am not sure the last time an MSP was dropped from a K.
My insider knowledge suggests that Tucs assessment of the DCB is sound.
The 108" MSP from the J was not safe. yes we did drop one from the K. The US Also dropped a Type V with our RME (From a US Civ 130). It was not Q2 who put a stop to it. nor did they favour the Type V. We [Q2 and JATE] did drop a few type Vs from the J but not using the US parachute methods or RME.
Is it classified information as to what systems are to be employed on the A400M?