During the 2010 SDSR there was huge economic pressure on pretty much everything and look what happened. It would be tempting to think the considerable economic recovery in the UK would ease pressure on the defence budget. Also there is some appetite to maintain the 2% of GDP figure.
However, having failed to clear the deficit as promised, the Government will be feeling the need to make sure they do it this time round. Furthermore, the definition of the 2% "pledge" has been somewhat blurred, which leads me to suspect that there may be a plot to "dip below 2%" for a period and then rebuild NATO commitment when the economic situation is better - the rebuild promise is one that may never have to be honoured, like all long term political promises.
All that leads me to wonder if we should expect a pretty tough SDSR. And when politicians start looking at tough decisions nothing is off the table - except education and overseas aid, obviously!
So, anything that was said about two carriers and their various aircraft before the election will certainly be under review now... ...again!
The Generals, Admirals and Air Ranks will grumble, but then carry on with business as usual, I expect.
I may have this completely wrong. We may see a real term increase in defence spending and proper funding levels for the programmes. But then, maybe not.