Thanks for the replies so far. Interesting to see how the streaming of Navs developed over time, possibly as a result of feedback from OCUs and frontline Sqns it appears.
Talking of Navs on helicopters we had one, and one only, on the SAR Flt I was posted to in the mid 80’s. All the other Radar/Winch operators were AEOp’s.
The particular officer in question was a lovely chap, but was not in the first flush of youth. Picture a Spec Aircrew version of Godfrey from Dad’s Army and you’re not a million miles away.
Not sure what he had flown on previously but we (the groundcrew) suspected, somewhat uncharitably, that he was posted to helicopters as they could stop mid-air and hence allow him to catch up…