So not content with having to borrow kit from better-equipped nations on operational detachments, the UK itself is now having to borrow core capability from other nations....
Appalling.
Although Nimrod MRA4 was an utter pig* (apart from its very capable mission system), when it was turned into saucepans the UK should have decided on a more modern and capable alternative, such as the P-8 or even an A320-family based MPA.
But no. Our sandaholic MoD seemed to forget about anything that wasn't connected with OP FAILURE-ON-THE-NW-FRONTIER.....
*Described by one pilot, who I will not identify, as "The worst aeroplane I've ever flown".