Who operates the most advanced versions of the Hawk ?

Personally I think entering a discursive debate as to which is best is at this moment in time the wrong thing to do. Let us at least see what the T45 is like in service for a little while first. A ship is about more than just its missile capabilities. Historically some ships that were great on paper, barely got past their sea trials.

Its pleasing to see that the RN managed to get so many assets there so soon. One vessel not to underestimate is the RFA Fort Victoria. I had no idea the RFA ‘Forts’ were so large until I stood beside one last year. They are nearly as big as the UK carriers and could probably carrier a significant number of refugees. Related to this, I am sure it was no small achievement to get the UK based Chinooks to Cyprus over the weekend as well.

Something like this may hopefully encourage the UK government think again before reducing the fleet further. Imagine the fuss had the nearest ship had been sitting tied up in reserve (like Invincible) in Pompey harbour and 12000 people needing to be moved 🙁

I have not heard about the American naval response, presumably they have significant ships committed ?

Whats the story behind the Omega fuelling deal ? Are they supporting anyone or will they be tied into a long term contract for just one country ?

Guys, Think how a terrorist thinks, You have a success, its in your interest to ‘leak’ that it is a new capability that you have, so you also invent a new name or code number that gets passed unofficially to the press who may misquote it. That way it gives you two advantages. 1/ You cover up your source for the weapon (or hope to) 2/ It gets the inteligence dept of the country you just attacked in trouble with their political bosses as they haven’t told the politicos that a/ you have missiles and b/ that you can produce your own missiles which would be a major intelligence failing (even if you used someone elses). Result you look good with your supporters, and they look out of touch and confused,

It strikes me that there is a lot of disinformation and spin flying about here, some of which is certain to have been planted.

I hope that due to the delays on the new carriers they reverse their decision not to fit the GR7/9 with a radar, but I won’t hold my breath 🙁