mhk77: Don't think you're talking out of your rear end one bit.
On the contrary, completely agree with you. The next five to ten years certainly will prove interesting.
It's the NATS mentality which considers itself a cut above the rest that is losing the NSL contracts. The "we are the best - cogito ergo sum: we must always charge a premium" attitude will likely continue to be the downfall of NSL.
The Gatwick ATC contract wasn't awarded merely on cost. Yes, it was and always is a large, large factor, but how can people honestly say that any one of the several, large ANSPs that exist cannot do an equally safe and efficient, if not better job? What coherent proof does NATS have that says it is impossible? None, it's pure inward-looking arrogance in my mind! Someone mentioned having the mentality of Civvy Servants - they're right!
DFS provide very high safety and efficiency in their numerous operations across Germany, while continuing to add and develop innovation. NATS have achieved the increased capacity etc at Gatwick, there's no doubt, but they are not the only 'ATC Gods' with that capability!