Gorilla, I don't believe trap one said that the E3 was just a flying R3 bunker. It is capable of more than that, albeit it is limited in scale, and the arrival of IP-based communications for the platform opens up a whole new range of potential tasks viz use of imagery, application of ROE, control of UAVs (already demo'd from Wedgetail), airborne command element etc. Agreed though, people should not be controlling unless they are suitably trained.
Sargs, back to thread, the NATO ATs are all SNCOs but the US can employ more junior enlisted. I think the UK logic related to the degree of responsibility and the self-supervision bit, which in turn led to SNCO-level experience requirements.