Originally Posted by
Melchett01
That's as may be, but there are major strategic implications here, and not just militarily. The UK's image has the potential to unravel rapidly if we are not careful. We want to portray ourselves as key players and reliable partners and yet all we are able to offer up are small numbers and 1s & 2s here and there. Frankly in a world going to hell in a handcart requiring more and more intervention to preserve national equities, then this isn't going to cut it and we will be found wanting. If we want to be more than a bit part player, yes we need senior leaders to be fiscally responsible, but equally our national leadership must also realise they can't simply pass the buck down the chain and totally absolve themselves for the outcomes of the decisions based on their framework within which we operate.
An excellent input with a clear understanding of the issues.
We were told by Mr Cameron that overcoming DAESH was the struggle of our lifetime and I have no reason to disagree. On that basis, what part will the new carriers place in that.
To my mind it is clear that we should be putting more resources into the 'GO TO' equipment we have been utilising for years, that being ISTAR jets.
Had it not been due to Tornado withdrawal Typhoon would not have been given the current upgrade programme of ground attack. That would have left us totally reliant on the new F35.
The real issue then would be - how will F35 cope with being a true workhorse (flying the ass off it) despite the maintenance requires.
All that glitters isn't gold.