Just to correct a few misunderstandings on this thread.
1. It is a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) not a pilotless aircraft. Big difference.
2. It is a flying tour, not a ground tour.
3. Many jobs in the RAF are annotated for aircrew as they require their specialist skills/knowledge/experience so have no adverse effect on flying pay.
5. The Americans use fully qualified pilots and no ab-initios (different story with sensors).
6. The army do not use qualified aircrew for their smaller, LOS, unarmed UAVs. Yes many airspace users have an issue with this if they want to operate outside specialist airspace. They also have a hefty loss rate.
7.
wouldn't a operational pilot who has failed a medical be a pretty good candidate?
I would have thought so, but not current policy.
8. And if I must - flying suits are by far the most sensible option. You can't seriously be suggesting blues in Nevada?? The only real alternative is desert DPM and they aren't scaled for that. Also every other country wears flying suits as they are not stuck in a mid 20th century mindset.