Safe or soon?

The MOD, presumably to counter the accusation that our troops in Afghanistan have insufficient helicopter provision, despite the claims of G. Brown, are now rushing out 6 Merlin helicopters to aid troop movements in the war.

In fact they are rushing them out by December, so quickly that they will not be able to give them armoured protection against Taliban smalls arm fire or RPGs! Can anyone think of any other government which is so slow to respond and so callous to send equipment which has limited use?

So the troops may be able to avoid roadside bombs, but only at the cost of flying in planes which give them little protection against low technology armaments.

The government has effectively washed its hands by saying that if there is a problem the commanders on the spot must judge when it is safe to use the helicopters.

I can suggest an immediate use. Keep the Merlins in reserve to transport VIPs, including members of HM govt., when they visit Afghanistan. They would have to be flown by Kamikaze volunteer pilots, of course.