I see Richard Beedall’s website is now predicting an announcement/signing ceremony at the Anglo-French summit in early April. Although he does say that is Optimistic. There would be certain political advantages for both sides if something like that happened then.

That would certainly fit in with the political time frame for both countries, as I have said before I think there will be far more French build work for the UK carriers then originally intended but frankly I don’t see this as a bad thing anymore.

I think it lives on with the JSTARS engine upgrade.

Duxford has one.

If memory serves, AFM carried a story recently that was saying that the -J fleet is being very heavily tasked, especially with the -K models being modified at the moment. I would love to see them increasing the C-17 fleet by another three, beyond the planned fleet of five. As for C-130s, I hope they order a follow on batch of 25 C-130Js, as quickly as possible. In terms of special ops support, the C-27J seems to be getting popular, and would have benefits of commonality with C-130J systems.

I must admit I have pondered the idea of purchasing some C27J, I presumed the issues of range and the cost of bringing another type into the fleet were the main issues. In the end C27 purchases could eat into purchase budget for other types like the C130J, A400 and C17.

Not another one!

Personally I think the MOD should seriously consider surplus airframes from AMARC and get Marshalls to refit them to K standard.

I missed yesterdays episode as I was laid up in bed with a sudden bout of Tonsillitis.

Feeling a bit better day so I will have to watch the repeat on Wednesday.

I was looking forward to the American trip.

Sorry Swerve should of clarrified that a bit, the AFM article states that if Argentina purchased M2K they would be older models sent back to Dassault to be upgraded to Dash 5 config. Once France has flogged the older M2KC to Brazil and Argentina they would probably close down base Orange.

I agree that the F1C would be a good interim choice especially as we are probably talking a bargin basement price, maybe a split purchase would be the ideal solution for Argentina.