Drone_pilot
21-07-04, 11:41
Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon is expected to announce large cuts in the armed forces on Wednesday as part of modernisation plans.
It is thought that some 12,000 personnel posts could be lost to fund the development of new hi-tech systems.
Flexibility and the ability to fight far from the UK is key, says Mr Hoon.
The RAF is likely to be hardest hit, with the possible closure of bases and the early withdrawal of Jaguar squadrons, says the BBC's Paul Adams.
Some army regiments could be merged into bigger units, with an overhaul of its structure expected, the BBC's defence correspondent added.
With costly programmes for new planes, ships and submarines already gobbling up cash, other areas have to be sacrificed, he added.
BBC Read More (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/3912283.stm)
It is thought that some 12,000 personnel posts could be lost to fund the development of new hi-tech systems.
Flexibility and the ability to fight far from the UK is key, says Mr Hoon.
The RAF is likely to be hardest hit, with the possible closure of bases and the early withdrawal of Jaguar squadrons, says the BBC's Paul Adams.
Some army regiments could be merged into bigger units, with an overhaul of its structure expected, the BBC's defence correspondent added.
With costly programmes for new planes, ships and submarines already gobbling up cash, other areas have to be sacrificed, he added.
BBC Read More (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/3912283.stm)