Ark Royal back out of Refit

[Romeo Oscar Golf]

That's because our aircraft are at war

Very much the point which is being made on the "bash Brown(e)" threads I believe. We have become overcommitted with insufficient resources, such that we are unable to train properly or participate fully in all the other significant exercises.

[ZH875]

What can the Ark be used as now:

The ship’s company was joined by private guests, former ships captains and the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Jonathon Band. Captain Mike Mansergh, the vessel’s commanding officer, said: “It is a very special day for Ark Royal because the ship can now be deployed across the world immediately.”

So there we have it, Gordon Brown has managed to fund a replacement for the Royal Yacht Brittania after all.

[Green Flash]

the ship can now be deployed across the world immediately.”

But first, tell the Spanish and Italians that they are on a cruise to the West Indies or somewhere. Then hide the compass!

[clicker]

Why tell them?

Once we get going and they find out they will run off, we keep the aircraft as we are likely to need them sooner or later.

[GreenKnight121]

And guess what... the Italian (& most Spanish) Harriers are AV-8B+ models... so the RN would get some radar-equipped Harriers back after all!!

[Green Flash]

Ah, I think I've spotted the new procurement process. Pillage someone else's kit!

[Lazer-Hound]

Pillaging other people's kit? I thought that's where the 'Borrowers' nickname came from already!