Is 'stick and rudder' flying to solo standard in basic aircraft a relevant stepping stone to a career in aviation - military or civil?
Yes
Why? It is still the basic element of any flying career and even for unmanned aviation - the Protector still has throttle, stick and rudder pedals. Further, the confidence it gives a youth to fly solo, and the huge responsibility earned through trust, cannot be understated. You cannot get that in a simulator or part-task trainer.