timeframe - Helix was the 2003 programme to look at how to extend (maybe) the R1 to mid/late '20's
They added Rivet Joint into the study in 2008
The MR4 was cancelled in 2010 and that left the Rivet Joint as the only show in town so three were ordered in March 2010 - first one arrived in late 2013 - crews had been on training attachment since Jan 2011
So IF we go with Mr Boeing we have crews already training, a working production line - three years to delivery looks possible
If we go the full on spec, competitve bid road it'll be a lot longer - and plenty of time for the next govt to change it's mind......... which is the big risk IMHO