Two more things: first, "We can't fly that flag because- well,

we'll come up with a reason."

And the other,
AN INTERNAL German army report has revealed serious deficiencies in the European-designed helicopter that will replace Australia's military helicopter fleet in a $4.2 billion deal.

The damning 103-page report recommends using alternative aircraft whenever possible in military operations.

The report says clearance is so limited in the MRH-90 helicopters that soldiers have trouble getting in and out.

The rear ramp is too weak to support fully equipped soldiers and its floor is so sensitive that it can be cracked by boots.

The report by the German army's Airborne Operations and Air Transport School says the helicopter's limited interior space means there is no room for a defensive machine gunner, or a full infantry unit wearing weapons and armour or a combined troop and cargo load.

And it says heavy infantry weapons, such as surface-to-air missiles, cannot be transported.