This, from CDR Salamander's blog about the V-22 replacing the C-2. It seems like the same sentiment can be applied to so many decisions.

"Ummmm ... yea. In the end, we'll wind up with XXXX and Sailors will do the best they can with what their Navy has given them.

We could have done better, but then again - those making the decisions are not the ones who will live or die by them."

Understanding what strategic decision making is all about could help. Many people think that strategy is about future decisions.  It's not.  It about the futurity of present decisions.  What decisions could have been made 15 years ago to prevent the Navy from making the difficult decision about C-2 replacement now? This isn't something that snuck up on us.