My God, we've had all these reasoned posts and no real slagging off....now that's progress
WB SATCO,
My original 'training for war' comment was a bite after Madam ATCO's comment.
I know you chaps do sterling and vital work on the ground in such places as Bagram and Pristina in pretty austere conditions. I take my hat off to you. Unfortunately, her comments represent what I (albeit subjectively) see as a widely held opinion in the ATC specialisation, especially among the younger and less experienced - what's the point in having FCs? - what's the point in AD? You, at least, appear to understand where everyone fits in - I hope I do as well and my comments were aimed at those who spend their life in a Tower in the UK (although maybe even that is harsh?)
Take3Call5,
You are of course correct. There is no threat to the UK.
a. The folly of the 'Ten Year Rule' - 1930s
b. NORAD didn't think there was any threat to CONUS until a certain date in the recent past.
I trust that, even as a humble UK taxpayer, this might be enough for you to be going on with, lest I say any more and have a visit from some very large and unfriendly men talking about....sssh, official secrets......
Oh and BTW, just how many FC controllers do you think there are in the UK? Without divulging actual numbers, those on ops with, eg, the E3D component form a considerable percentage of that strength. These are not the days of the Shacklebomber!!!!!
Anyway, back on shift.....
AA