And so the game begins:
L3 (Q400) v Airbus (C295) v Boeing (P-8)
Pro's and cons:
P-8 - In service, proven, tested, biggest, best, already operated by RAF aircrew. Can replace Sentinel and E-3 (Wedgetail).
Problem is cost.
C295 - In service, proven, tested, 80% performance for 30% of cost of P-8. AWACs variant available.
Problem is capability.
Q400 - Brian Burridge and Flash Gordon on the team (influential), 80% performance for 30% of cost of P-8. AWACs variant available.
Problem is capability and not yet designed, tested or proven.
Maybe it will come down to the best leasing package? and we know Boeing have a proven track record with that one (C17)......