Much thanks FC for making my point...

If seedcorn was not primarily political the MOD study would have read...

Why would they not mention that the RN could be and should be a massive part of bringing back an MPA capability?

Probably because they are sh1t scared of some bright spark posing the following question...

Well if it's a COTS solution, and pilots are generic, and the RN can do maritime ops, sensors and comms, WTF is seedcorn bringing to the party?

Obviously some additional value if we go with a COTS the seedcorners are currently flying...but if it's some cheapo twin turboprop???

Still I guess we will find out in 2015. Don't hold your breath.

Looking at the latest language being used I'm now starting to think that we will see something come out of SDSR 2015, but as to precisely what that might be, God only knows. I'm guessing some sort of manned / unmanned mix as Hammond has now several times hinted that technological developments are proceeding at such a pace that other delivery options are opening up. P8 for the manned element would presumably be the best outcome but at this stage I'm struggling to envisage the budget stretching to that. At the other end, a small manned element comprising some CN295s or even using re-roled Sentinels?

CDS, in his evidence to the Defence Select Committee, mentioned MPA by name as something being considered by the SDSR15 team.

Clueless.I'm cross so will say no more.

:cool:I note the French are re-fitting 20 Atlantiques. I always thought that we should have replaced the Shack with them. Our defence procurement has always seemed to be an on going shambles.

Everyone is talking as though SDSR15 is a given - it is not.

There is the small matter of events such as a Scottish referendum on Independence in 2014, and, more importantly, a general election to be held before SDSR15.

If the current lot don't get back in any previous plans could well go straight back to the drawing board..... indeed, if the current lot don't get back in there probably won't be an SDSR15!

Between now and 2015 there is also time for possible cost overruns on the carriers and JSF to come home to roost, and who knows what other events, world, UK, political, economic, etc to blow things off course.

Yes, of course staff work is being done on SDSR15, but have you any idea how much staff work never sees the light of day?

A few words from senior needies indicate intent/wishes, and are easy to make, but those words have to be translated into reality, usually by your successors - and that is the hard bit!




Jam tomorrow anyone?