HMSQNLZ Cats n Traps

[AeroplaneDriver]

So it seems the Betty Windsor Yacht Club are asking around about catapult and arrestor systems for The QE class carriers. 

The specs they are looking for are for a max launch weight of 55,000lb. Which is far less than an F-35C or Super Hornet max weight.  They say it is for "crewed and uncrewed" aircraft.  55k is awfully close to an E-2D max weight but more likely it is for useful bits of kit like UAV tankers and Loyal Wingman type aircraft like the Mosquito under development.

But from a pure whiffery POV the specs they have written would work for a Maritime Grippen E, either for CATOBAR or STOBAR operations.  Would make an interesting Hi-Lo mix for QE or PoW to deploy with a squadron of Lightnings for "Day 1" strike and a squadron of Sea Grippens for CAP and low intensity ops.  Operating cost of the Sea Grippen is $4,000/hour per SAAB which has to look attractive compared to the $35-40k for the Lightning.

Makes you wonder...

Now I just need a decent 1/48 Grippen to play with..