The revived Royal Naval Reserve air branch aimed initially for fifty officer aircrew drawn from pilots who had only recently left regular service. Their current flying experience meant they could reinforce frontline squadrons without the cost and complexity of creating separate reserve units. The arrangement kept expensive specialist skills in the mobilization pool. The same principle could apply to airliner-derived P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and E-7 Wedgetail early-warning aircraft. Reserve crews and additional airframes could give those fleets more depth.
Chapter · 4:25-5:17
A reserve air branch for fleet depth
Recently departed pilots would augment frontline squadrons, preserving expensive flying skills in the reserve.