I agree, that nine month thing makes zero sense. But I suggested what does make sense out of all those words, and apparently you (would like to) agree!

I'd probably have to read the whole thing again to get a better grasp, but with more thought, I'm thinking we're confusing "Interim Period" with "Initial Term". So what I'm thinking is that second (third?) quote of yours is saying that after his "surviving" the Initial Term (3 month interim period, plus the 9 month followon interim period - making one full year) he is eligible for another full year term.

Fortunately, I don't this is anything to get too excited about.

But, then again, I KNOW nuttin'!

SGE