Naval Service General Discussion - Fleet, Manpower, Policy

Thanks some interesting historical information there, a lot which is in the public domain. You are correct re plans for blocks 9 and 11. I also understand Block 10 is planned for redevelopment over the medium term. Your point is a fair one, the DF is lumbered with a bunch of old buildings across many locations but unless it moves to new sites, such is the state of dilapidation they should either be torn down or renovated. Haulbowline is an example par excellence. It really sends a signal to those who serve where they stand.

good man, no need for the condescension there, not all posters here have access to the book you refer. Secondly, thanks for clarifying re some of the buildings on Haulbowline, however, this poses the obvious question as to why they are not under DF control at this point? The location presents questions of access and to whom they present the best use - to other govt departments they are in effect stranded assets. No ?

I'm guessing that's in reference to the story a while back about the RN sending a Merlin to outside the harbour?

they are stretching it a bit though, I mean it’s not like we had the capability even when Eithne was in service.

What a beautiful ship. And for a vessel its size it's armed to the bloody teeth. Just the ticket to have Jonny Russian high tailing it back to home port. Show them we mean business.

Hope not 10-15 years, but given we are looking at 3 or so months left in this government, its fate seems certain to pass to whatever shape the next government ends up being, so any point out to 5 years before the order given how long the can has been kicked.

That being said, I wonder will defence actually make an appearance in the upcoming GE, and maybe among all the usual insane "NATO CONSCRIPTION" BS, we might hear some actual policies and plans, given how the LOA2 is meant to be reached under the next government…

Retention just isn’t a concern of the DOD/Finance.

ya if there was ever any doubt, the fact that Jennifer Carroll Mc Neill is the TD for Dun Laoighaire should swing it IMHO.

It’s a fair point, our issues of course are compounded by the issue of having too small a force in the first place and the long standing indifference the politicians and public have had towards the DF.

However in relation to the commissioning, and long term issues, I see Martin has announced that the Sea Going Tax Credit has been extended for 5 years.

https://x.com/RACO_DF/status/1831390530884005925

I see Jonny Russian is "at it" up in the Baltic at the moment. Probably heading our way in a bit.