UK Orders Wedgetails

[IMarsh]

No modifications for probe-drogue refuelling planned for the new E-7s, been told that the endurance meets the RAF needs. Any aerial refuelling requirements will be met by allies and the number of boom-equipped tankers in Europe is rapidly increasing. Hopefully the UK never buys the travesty that is the KC-46.

Not so sure relying on "allies" is reliable enough for the Falklands run, especially considering a number of them were either supplying or pro Argentina last time. I do agree on the KC-46, surely more voyagers or their evolution would be the better option.

[ColintheCaterpillar]

No modifications for probe-drogue refuelling planned for the new E-7s, been told that the endurance meets the RAF needs. Any aerial refuelling requirements will be met by allies and the number of boom-equipped tankers in Europe is rapidly increasing. Hopefully the UK never buys the travesty that is the KC-46.

Not so sure relying on "allies" is reliable enough for the Falklands run, especially considering a number of them were either supplying or pro Argentina last time. I do agree on the KC-46, surely more voyagers or their evolution would be the better option.

When did the UK last deploy an AEW asset to the Falklands? Why would they?

[seven]

I don't think that's quite what he meant, but any engagement in that theatre would have AEW Merlins deployed, not E-3/E-7. Not that there'd be much to shoot down..

7

[Thunder]

Pretty sure the Type 45 destroyer could do a pretty good job of keeping the skies clear down there.

[seven]

Wouldn't put all my eggs in that particular basket..

[ColintheCaterpillar]

I don't think that's quite what he meant, but any engagement in that theatre would have AEW Merlins deployed, not E-3/E-7. Not that there'd be much to shoot down..

7

I gathered; the historical point of the last E-3 detachment there was rather rhetorical.

[Martin]

STS Aviation at Birmingham will carry out conversion work on the ordered aircraft

https://www.boeing.co.uk/news-media-roo ... Qo4IIh4xY0

Martin