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Originally Posted by Dectilion
actually, most sources do suggest that the Saudi deal will be hulls 5 and 6, though this is by no means definite.
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At lot of that is supposition - given that "two hulls" are under threat. Logically, this suggests 5+6, however, iirc the funding for 7 & 8 exists. However, as you say, its all very unclear at the moment. I certainly hope its not true..
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CVF will almost certainly happen, and Illustrious will probably be decommisioned by 2010-2012 at the latest, and Ark Royal by 2015. Ocean will probably be replaced by the end of next decade or the early 2020's, it a cheap unit built to fill gaps (just a slightly modified Invincible class, and costing 1/3 as much as a T-45)
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Accurate details!!
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I dont see the CVF being used as an LPH, its just a complete waste and inefficient use of a 60,000 ton warship, and their wont really be airframe and rotation issues with the JSF (about 36 per ship, well over 100 are being ordered, you do the math)
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That's the "in theory" part unfortunately. circa 120-132 are likely to be ordered. However, that is designed to replace the entire Harrier force (RN and RAF) as well, it is not ring fenced for the RN. Plus, it is possible that some the number (2* squadrons worth) will replace some the Tornados in the deep strike role.
When you add in attrition replacements/OCU/WEU aircraft - its likely that at typical load will be err, 12 F35... They can surge to a much higher level of course. The other problem is rotation - at some stage the LPH will be in refit/run-up and a CVF will need to step in.
Incidentally, the LHA-6 class will displace about 50,000 tonnes.
ideally, CVF wouldn't be used like this - but we arent in an ideal world. Nor is using the £750 million Invincible (replacement cost) in the £150 million Ocean role... UK defense procurement seldom makes sense.. lol
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And the EU military thing, possible, though highly unlikely in the near future, the UK is simply to Euro-sceptic, any anyways, theirs like 50 languages in the EU, it would be sheer madness trying to run a military force)
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I agree - its very very unlikely in the near/medium future without a catalyst..