Apart from budgets and inter-service politics, what is the rationale for retaining the RAF rather than distributing aviation to the Army and Royal Navy?
Short answerA service specializing in aviation has value, while naval ownership suits carrier aircraft. RAF squadrons can still operate aboard carriers when joint operation improves capacity and institutional support.
NotesThe RAF's theoretical advantage is concentrated aviation expertise, especially where strategic air power requires its own institution. Transferring all land aviation to the Army would not automatically improve procurement or management, as recent Army programs demonstrate. Fleet Air Arm ownership makes more sense for carrier aircraft because naval command simplifies organization and integration at sea. RAF carrier squadrons can still add personnel and resources while keeping the air service invested in carrier warfare.