Mel,
A brave effort and well reasoned. I doubt you'll reap much fruit.
Do remember when you discuss the aircraft being designed to meet the spec that the design spec in this case has had to be redefined more than once.
I honestly now think the RN has been sold a pup. And for those that couldn't be arsed to follow this and many other discussions and articles on the subject, the opinions being expressed here are not based on a single pilot's jottings. His words are simply confirming what was already expected.
If some of you would like to take a little time out to read, let's say, posts here from about two years ago, you will see that the claims of the day were precisely what many here are now denying.
So, enough "I told you so." Enough "it was never meant to do that." How about what it can do? Tactical Bomb Truck seems to be the current thinking. Anyone care to think about how HMS Queen Elizabeth might be defended? Apologies to the Americans for that question; I understand you couldn't give a ****. Just as long as the UK remains a loyal partner and buys it.