“One thing that I could never understand was why the Nimrod R1 replacement was never merged into the MRA4 programme?
It was to some extent, but only because the R1s role had shifted significantly.”
The 3 ‘prototype’ MRA4’s were mooted for conversion as R.1 replacements at one point, once the MRA4 production numbers were reduced.
“As for commonality with US equipment, isn’t that one of the main selling-points for the second-hand Rivet Joint?
Er, no, I don’t think there are any “selling points” at all, it is simply available that’s all.”
RC-135 and the E-3D will share a lot of airframe items I guess plus CFM56 engines. Add that in with the rumours of the P-8 and you have a Boeing/CFM connection which would result in much lower in service support costs and a massive spares inventory.
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