Ancient Pelican
I didn't see anything patronising in your phrasing, but I admit to being puzzled about what it is you're actually asking, and baffled about what exactly the advance recce is supposed to achieve - unless the group is bringing their own security advisers to make an assessment.
Most pilots, f/w or rotary are unlikely to be experts in security. We leave it to the experts. The UK's track record is good.
I agree 100% with Shy Torque. If we get too paranoid about the terrorists, adopt a fortress mentality, give up our freedom and change our way of life, they've won anyway.