***You seem to admit now you are basing your judgement of RAF/RN fast jet pilots (and some of my friends will be amused at me defending crabs) at least in part on the skills of a Belgian C-130 pilot, and some various worldwide airforces. Another hint: that isn't what we're talking about here. No disrespect to the Herc guys, I know some great pilots from that world, but your mate not only probably failed to get fast jet recommend, but he was Belgian too. Not noted for their military achievements. They are a bunch of pacifists so it is unlikely the military is a respected career choice or a high priority, or that operational training is as good as it is in a country where some still respect our military (bloody hell, me talking about respect for the RAF! )***
Send Clowns, you're way out of line here. How on earth can you make such a statement? We all know that in all disciplines everywhere in the world there are people who wouldn't be able to organize a piss-up in a brewery. BAF herkies have been flying humanitarian missions all over the world in some of the most remote and dangerous areas, their pilots have tons of experience in operating their planes under difficult circumstances.Have a look at this guy's CV
http://www.astronautix.com/astros/dewinne.htm and tell me if that changes your idea about Belgian military pilots. Note the training at the Empire Test Pilots School in Boscombe Down, the Tornado license, the first non-American to receive the Semper Viper Award for demonstrating exceptional skill during flight etc.