On flt ops, much as nonaircrew handling aircrew careers, I hear there are discussions about returning aircrew to ops.
'They' have been rumouring that since the flt ops branch was created in the 90s, and while several in the branch live up to their clueless reputation, others have found their niche - the biggest problem the branch has is its 'failed everything else' reputation, compounded by a course that isn't difficult or highly-acclaimed. Perhaps another thing we need to include in the desperately needed review of the RAF is a means to get rid of individuals who evaded the quality controllers during the selection process, or who 'malfunction' thereafter - we all know them.
Ultimately the Service won't replace even half-capable flt ops officers while they remain cheaper than aircrew; they'll do what they always do and continue to carry those who wouldn't know mustard, let alone how to cut it.