UK Merlin fleet

[CelticWarrior]

I heard recently that the MoD signed the letter to transfer the RAF Merlin fleet to the Royal Navy.

I don't know when this is due to take effect, but when it happens all UK Merlins will be in the RN fleet.

Further to this I've also heard that, regardless of the cuts, there has been massive over-recruiting by the RAF (shock, horror). The rotary training pipeline is full. Currently there are 450 students in flying training vying for 100 seats.

The Chinook OCU is taking very few students this year and the Puma OCU is closing.

on FW training, 76(R) Sqn to disband and the Dominie aircraft OSD (Out of Service Date) is 31 Jan 11.

On The FJ side I've heard that WSO training is to cease and Harrier pilots are being offered back-seat jobs on the Tornado fleet, i.e. sitting behind pilots who weren't as good as them in training.

The cuts are starting to bite.

[plumber]

I understand that the first 50 RAF Typhoons are going to be scrapped instead of being updated, to save money.

[CelticWarrior]

I understand that the first 50 RAF Typhoons are going to be scrapped instead of being updated, to save money.

Ouch!

[delbydoo]

I understand that the first 50 RAF Typhoons are going to be scrapped instead of being updated, to save money.

Ouch!

.....but knowing our lot, it will probably cost more to scrap than to update.....

[Joecoastie]

I wonder how long it will be before something "bad" happens in the world and we're all wondering how we are going to "make do" with our stripped defenses?