Because one of the island nations can’t afford to buy new fighter jets.

Why? Who says they have to be bought now? Take a look at the year of this thread’s title.

Because the UK doesn’t need a 5th gen jet.

Says whom?

The UK doesn’t require one.

Not now they don’t.

You’re not aware of a few things, Slowman/InternationalPirate. There is talk of the RAF ordering additional F-35s to replace Tranche 1 Typhoons in the future of which will be upgraded with the 5 series of ‘Blocks’ until then (Typhoons will be replacing Tornados, soon!). Later on Tranche 2s and 3s will need to be replaced and I doubt that there will be additional F-35s bought and I doubt there will be sufficient numbers of F-35s to take over the roles of those. And despite shrinking numbers in the RAF there will be a very good possibility that the RAF will want at least two manned types in operational service, one of which to replace latter units of Typhoons. Enter the F-3.

Interesting development. Clearly the Japanese are hoping for a tie-up with the US 6G winning contender, the amendments to their military export legislation facilitate this. Although up until a few years ago I would have doubted the US side committing to a joint venture with anyone, this is more likely now given their current and medium term defence budgetary constraints, I doubt Europe would have the appetite or funds for participation in such a programme.

The only country in Europe I wouldn’t doubt to join is the UK. BAE Systems and the British Government are seeming to be looking at Japan for a number of joint military ventures, this could possibly be one of them they have in mind. A compelling replacement for the Typhoon too perhaps.

Being a Brit, I’d obviously go for the British side, with that out the way I’d still say the British team have a more compelling design and not to mention (as was before hand) their experience. Just as long as the Yanks do what they did at the Ryder Cup this year, chant “USA” over & over again, whoop & holler and boo like crazy when its the opposing sides turn… then get totally owned at the last minute – not just totally owned, like, ankles pinned behind their ears owned. Pure gold!

Regarding Damon Hill, I’ve met him three times and always thought he was a canny chap, though very modest about what he was capable of. The third time was last year at Croft, also met Georgie & Josh and they’re very nice too I found. All three were very grateful that I were there supporting Josh in Formula Renault and Damon remembered me from ’99. I guess a lot of people don’t always hit it off.

A lot, not just today too. Just got back home from Japan with my bonkers step-father, lovely & cuddly best mate (her first proper holiday away, very happy about that I am), a couple of other best, if slightly “odd” mates of ours and my lovely sweetheart, Kelly. Excellent time despite being almost a last minute thing to get ourselves sorted but all went well, and what a great weekend we had at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka and where we camped during that time. We were at the circuit’s hair pin where we witnessed some great racing and where Sergio Perez messed up, sadly, his overtaking attempt. Blooming great time!

I enjoy watching the Carry-On… films, but there isn’t many quotes that stand out for me, I’ve always prefered Norman Wisdom’s the most be it from real life or from his films.

“As you get older three things happen. The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.”

“There was a small Orphan, maybe about 5 or 6 years old, crying on the side of the street, nobody could make him smile or laugh. Even though he couldn’t understand English I went up to him and went; ‘Urgggspspspspspspspspsp!’ and he was in fits of laughter!”

“How long will the ambulance be, Norman?”
“Oh, about 18 feet, Mr. Grimsdale.”

Mr. Grimsdaaaaale!”

Legend!