Trying to remember how many years ago I posted it would be easier cheaper and quicker to buy new gliders to solve the problem
Hey but what do I know ??
In a rational world that might be so, but in the current one maybe not.
How long would it take to:
a) Review a 20 year old requirement to confirm it is still valid (or probably go through a desirable change spec)
b) Agree a budget for the purchase
c) go out to tender
d) review the submissions (if any were received)
e) Have MAOS audit and approve the proposed supplier. (which could take more than 12 months on its own. EASA Part 145 doesn't read across.)
e) go through the commercial contract issue process
f) carry out acceptance trials
g) write the complete APS for the aircraft, and have it MAOS approved.
My guess is 7-10 years before a single new glider was seen under the current system, and the cost including MOD overheads doubling the equivalent ex-works price to the civilian world.