Interesting Diesel8, not everyone in the UK, or even Europe is anywhere near being a 'Nigel', I would be careful who you accuse of being one! Last time I looked the CAA did not say you become a pilot by reading a book, there is as much practical flying in our syllabus as in yours. We just believe a solid background knowledge ensures a better understanding of flight. (Although maybe it goes a wee bit too far in some regards.)
Omega/VLF has now been dropped from the material tested at ATPL level in the UK. Doppler? Plenty of examples I can think of in every day use.