always seemed to be that when we got shiny new kit, the excuse was "its brand new, you've got to expect a few teething problems". Then there was a short happy period (of variable length depending on usage and quality of original design). Then we were into the "ah well, that is getting on a bit now so you've got to expect a few problems"
I always thought is was some sort of 'trade-training' deal the MoD had with BAE etc in order to keep our fine techies at the top of their game!