If I just report the heading I happen to be using to make my track, well I might change it soon, although I'll keep the track. Sometimes I just blow in the wind, I can be so indecisive.
But why would you 'say anything' about your heading if you are under your own nav; unless asked? The context was about whilst being vectored. "Heading 280" is the same meaning as "Radar Heading 280" so why use the word RADAR in that context; was the concept.
"London, callsign request" (on VHF).
I wasn't aware ATCO's dislike this. I always use it before an "out of the ordinary" request, just in case you're doing something, and are not a little startled at whatever I want to do. Should I stop?
I guess because 'out of the ordinary' has not obvious definition, I'd rather you just jumped into the request. If I think it's unusual or I can't answer immediately or I don't understand, I'll be asking you to standby, saying yes/no, or saying to say again anyway, prepared for the request or not. So from my point of view just request away please.