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One of the counter arguments I've put forward in the past is that the failures of Type 556 as the longer term FAW solution to the RN FAA, is that the N/A.39 choice of B.103 Buccaneer, while a rational choice in isolation, leaves the RN still needing a new FAW at some stage in the future.

While Shorts PD.13 might have given them a better long-term path forward.

The RAF lacked it's desired FAW solutions, having a interim interceptor in the form of the Lightning.

Now had a fighter resolved this or had a more fighter capable solution been chosen for N/A.39.....

Then both RN FAA and RAF could have resolved funding constraints.

Earlier on the choice of DH.110 for both service had offered up just that prospect. But inter-service rivalry and development issues led them astray.

F4 ultimately resets both services to a more common platform.

But it was possible Earlier......