It's probably a mistake by the BBC, but the graphic down the bottom has the CVF in Catobar configuration. I couldn't find that graphic on the mod website so I guess it's just an old one that the BBC have dug up from the archives. There's no other mention about not using STOVL F35s.

 

Apart from that it was interesting to see that 4,600 jobs will be secured in Scotland compared to 2,000 odd in England, including only four hundred at Barrow - what will we be left with in terms of shipbuilding capability if the Scots vote for independance in 2010+?

 

Also, the article states that four hundred or so design and engineering jobs will be secured at Bristol and Crawley but makes no mention of any similar jobs being secured in France. Is this no longer a collaborative effort?

 

Essex

It looks like there's a very large number of aircraft when they're put out like that.

Well, last I heard, the PA2 option had faded away.

 

I am interested in suggestions that the French may ask if they can borrow a carrier from the UK, as it seems a logistical non starter (the CVF isn't equipped with catapults or arrester gear which would limit it to helicopter only actions in French hands)

 

It seemed a serious suggestion or request but makes no sense.

 

Ian

 

I'd be surprised if PA2 is a credible option. The French armed forces are in even bigger financial trouble than we are.

One interesting thing with their latest White Paper is the comment about the millions of French citizens overseas - therefore they are constructing a total of 4 Mistral LPH's to make sure they can carry out evac's etc if needed. I wonder if the RN shouldn't replace 3 Frigates with another 3 Ocean's - it would give us a very practical utility.