A force-planning estimate calls for about thirty-two P-8 Poseidons and eight E-7 Wedgetails for Britain. The proposed Wedgetail fleet would provide airborne early warning over the United Kingdom while retaining enough aircraft to support operations elsewhere. Poseidons would cover the North Atlantic, North Sea, and Mid-Atlantic, with some based in the Falklands for South Atlantic patrols. A Mediterranean contribution would help protect waters through which goods important to British infrastructure and industry move. These commitments extend beyond the aircraft needed for a war in one theatre. Maintaining presence across several regions can demand more aircraft, ships, and other assets than a narrowly defined wartime task. Commitments elsewhere would continue during a major conflict because withdrawing that presence could allow further problems to develop.
Notable Point · 31:23-33:04
The case for thirty-two Poseidons and eight Wedgetails
A proposed larger patrol and early-warning fleet would cover Britain and overseas commitments while preserving presence outside the main theatre of a war.