Ah yes, but the service gets to declare when a platform is a Mature airframe, and the Jag was so-declared in about 1993 - after 20 years in service.....
On that basis, the Tornado should be 'Mature' too, and the Harrier II soon....
But you're right, it's all about the thorny issue of Design Authority and whether or not IPT's have the balls and a balanced attitude to risk.....
And WEBF, you might think it's a 'scandal' but your saying so doesn't make it one.