Good stuff, constructive comment is very refreshing.
Of note in the latest Iraq campaign the RAAF Hornets after they were released from their tanker/AWAC escort duties, provided CAS for the Ozzy and coalition "troopers" and certainly were getting in amongst it. The Warthogs are another good example of the need to get down and get dirty and I am sure that any ground element in strife (a good example was Afghanistan when the Aussie SAS directed CAS for the US Forces that were ambushed) will appreciate the low flying skills of helo, transport and fast jet boys when the poop has hit the fan and CAS is paramount.
Imagine if all the above mentioned elements had done all their training at 250 KIAS, on the airway, with an IFR clearance.....not entirely sure we would be getting the results the guys and gals are able to achieve today.
PS And more to the point how will ATC be able to finish the crossword with all that extra IFR traffic on the frequency!!!
