Originally Posted by Well Travelled Nav
...the lack of investment in self-protection systems is widespread, seemingly based on premise of
We (the Government) can afford to lose a crew, but not afford to lose hundreds of troops.
In my opinion, Well Travelled Nav has hit the nail on the head here. About 5 or 6 years ago it dawned on me that I was expendable. An acceptable loss. But this is tempered with the thought of a 20 year old squaddie on patrol in Iraq/Afghanistan - a far clearer example.
I know that when the big knobs do their planning, they have a rough idea of what losses the public will accept, and this will vary depending on whether Wayne Rooney has broken his metatarsal, or whatever else takes the front page.
Two incidents spring to mind, but there are plenty more.
1. The Hercules Haj trips - a totally mental
PR job
2. A daylight trip to Kabul in a dumb Mk3, with a 'route' crew...and Adam Ingram MP on the bunk!
Good luck to those sticking their necks out (and watch your backs!)
RIP to the XV179 boys, we won't forget you
and those out there - stay safe.
...and treat every beer and every w*nk like its your last.
SPHLC