Underfire and all,
Yes, I felt the same during my committee work. When I initially became involved, my thoughts were my kids will think this is pretty neat.
That became modified to thinking my kids kids would think this is pretty neat.
SOOO many potential downfalls to ATC using this as sole source global ATC infrastructure. It has some positives, but the FAA seems driven to hang onto this concept since (ancient history) CAPSTONE.
Does the world really want to hang the entire worldwide ATC system to a low signal/easily jammed source of navigation information (GPS, etc.) with no backup?
I think not.
And with the bad guys still out there, a ground based system (radar) will be required near population areas anyway. Whether in the US, it is budgeted under FAA or DOT, no difference. It will be necessary.
Data links, bandwidth, etc., etc. still major issues.
Remote areas (Western Australia, Hudson Bay, etc.) already using it with benefits. Worldwide satellite com will help with Oceanic applications.
Bottom line: not ready for prime time. I could go on, ........