The books ref to UKASACS Ops and not UKADGE, this is no longer.

If you are Military, then you should be aware of the books and documents which explain the procedures and operations we carry out within the UKAPA. If not, its because you probably don't "NEED TO KNOW";)

Nice speaking with you.:confused:

SATCO I agree.

To show you that we are PC...

:) :) :) :) :D :D :D

All is forgiven.. Until next time on PPRuNe..

MB

My God, we've had all these reasoned posts and no real slagging off....now that's progress:D :D

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.:rolleyes:

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!!!!!;) :D

Anyway, back on shift.....

AA

T3C5 Old Chap,

Your quote :

'...the E3 AWACS and the very few FC's onboard...'

illustrates your considerable ignorance!

FC breveted individuals currently make up approx 60% of the E-3D mission crew. Currently 2/4 8 Sqn and 2/3 23 Sqn Flt cdrs wear an FC brevet. The OCU is currently commanded by an FC, as is the OES and the STANEVAL (until recently). We also fly on exchange with the USN E-2C force, and the USAF E-3B/C's. Probably a little over half of FC WC's will do a period on the E-3D at some point in their careers.

Personally, as an AWACS chappie, no one cares much for each other's brevet (banter aside!). We just view ourselves as WC's, FA's, SC's LM's, TD's or whatever. However, I suggest T3C5 that if you make statements like the above, please engage facts before employing keyboard!

Kindest regards...

M2

PS...AA, when are you going to get a life and come and do a decent job?!!!!:D :D :D

T3C5, I'll be a little less condescending and just suggest that you wind it in. If you knew a little more you would realise that, in the list you presented, there are a few more than 3 fighter controllers (8 or 9 by my book). Just to give you a clue: TD, SC and SOs.

Did I ever work with you at EDUO (late 80s)? I hope not.

TTFN :p

Incidentally ladies and gents,

We have in the past taken civvy ATCO's flying on E-3D missions. Requires some arrangements but it can be done so why don't you give Waddington a call. Military ATC types are easy, just phone up 8 or 23 Sqn ops and put your name down.

Hopefully you'll enjoy it AND find it useful.

Regards
M2:)

M2,

If you can find the key to the shackles that are holding me where I am at the moment, I'll be there like a shot!:D

Safe Flying;)

AA