Forgive me. Most of my flying is in MOAs, so I treat it all as such.
This briefing was for flights in the R-2508 Complex, the collection
of Restricted and Military airspace surrounding Edwards Air Force Base
and China Lake Naval Air Station. It makes up a good percentage of the
southern California task area, regularly used by gliders from Nevada
and California. The complex extends from surface to unlimited.
Thinking of the alternative, I don't mind hearing ATC warning
someone that there's a glider maneuvering at their altitude, 12:00, 5
miles. Had assumed that other than current draw there wasn't a down
side to a certified transponder installation, but an alarm going off
at ATC for no apparent reason is something to be aware of.
Your mileage may vary.
Jim
If you're unfamiliar with the R2508 Complex, and care to have a
look...
http://www.edwards.af.mil/r-2508.asp