Why no GPS in the EU? One phrase "George W. Bush"!
Few people dispute the unbelievable universal accuracy of the GPS system. I have used it for primary navigation in remote areas for several years--even before the Americans stopped degrading the signal four or five years ago it was generally accurate within about 10-30 feet-- and it really is the best.
However, the assurances made by the Americans that they will never again degrade the system are only that--promises. No matter what, they still control the switch on the whole damn thing and I must admit that the rest of the world (i.e. not North America) has a point in being reluctant to to take them at their word.
An ideal world would see GPS as the sole source for enroute and non-precision approach flying, but unlike the present system where everybody controls their own air navigation facilities totally, the yankees are the sole owners of the GPS system. Unless they somehow "give up control" either by sharing control or allowing other countries to own some of the satelites, they will have ultimate control over the world's skies in a GPS only future. I for one don't trust their assurances for a minute; if they feel it is in their interest to flip the switch, they will. That said, for me it is a risk I'm willing to take in exchange for the benefits of the system. I can certainly understand why some people aren't willing to take that risk though.
