Personal view but a simulator is an aid - NOT a replacement.
There is nothing like the real thing as far as realism is concerned, especially in the tactical environment - but I do agree that a sim is a very useful tool for areas where the real thing is difficult to obtain in peacetime ie. threats and emergencies (obviously a real emergency suffices but who wants that!).
The problem (or maybe solution in other eyes) is that simulation is effectively cheaper than flying for most aircraft and that seems to be the bottom line.