Now there is a week's delay for its operational start as it didn't get its new vehicle certificate in time from the Department for Transport (DfT).

BBC: Week-long wait for London's new Routemaster bus

That particular game was plagued by operational issues, including an embarrassing delay of the national anthem, so afterward, a frustrated Yormark made a promise to fans via social media.

WSJ: The Month That

If past practice is any guide, the application of such a "fly-before-buy" acquisition approach would leave the Marines without an operational aircraft until the year 2005, and delay complete replacement of the CH-46 until 2015.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | ��Now Hear This��: Will Aspin��s Commitment To V-22 Translate Into Needed Momentum, Real Peace Dividend?

The NAO report also casts doubt on the MoD's claim that the new carrier-based strike force will be fully operational by 2020, saying a decision to delay investment in Crowsnest, a helicopter-based early warning system, means it will be two years late.

BBC: Carrier fighter jet U-turn cost ?74m, says audit office

The prosecution had initially rejected calls for a delay, but now admits that "operational constraints", such as the availability of court space, may make an April date "untenable", reports the BBC's Anna Holligan from The Hague.

BBC: ICC Kenyatta trial 'may be delayed' on defence complaint

The US announcement of a troop surge in Afghanistan, coupled with an exit strategy that becomes operational barely 18 months from now, means that Pakistanis will be under great pressure to dismantle these groups without further delay.

BBC: Obama's perilous Pakistan strategy