Maritime Patrol Capability: The SDSR’s Wolf Whistle
As much as the MOD/JFC/RAF may have a view on the capability gap and its solution, it is ultimately funded by the Treasury. They will want to be satisfied on the vfm of buying a U.S. or Japanese aircraft rather than one that supports British industry. Equally they will take a view on "off the shelf" vs "new platform" and the likely success of certifying it to MAA regs. I don't know the answer but I do know it will not be in service (all DLODS) before the next election!