Keep in mind that the newest weapons systems need a lot of airspace so
their capabilities can be fully exercised. Even in the F4E we really
needed about 100 nm minimum separation so the WSOs had to work for a
radar detection. Many times I've been only 65 or so away and kept radar
contact on the 'oppo' F4 all the way out and all the way back in. And
that was working subsonic. Now try M2.0 speeds and a merge rate of 40
nm/minute really eats up that separation. Of course, if BRAC wants to
close Cannon I don't suppose too many USAF types will shed a tear. I
know I wouldn't, having stopped there a couple times. Walt BJ