London 2012: Olympic missiles sites confirmed

[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17884897

The Ministry of Defence says it is evaluating sites for surface-to-air missiles for the Olympic Games, and could place them at residential flats.

Residents at an estate in east London have received a leaflet saying soldiers could be placed there during the Games.

It says part of an air defence system might be based at a water tower on the estate, where 700 people live.

WTF ..... and who's paying for that ..... :mad:

Normally, I don't have much sympathy for Southerners, but the citizens of London are being treated like dogs by the self-interested organisers of the Olympic Games - "big business" is going to make a packet while ordinary residents will have a summer of hell ..... :eek:

[Mrluvaluva]

"Normally, I don't have much sympathy for Southerners". What? I read this before and it is crazy.

[Kizzy]

To assume there was not a chance of conflict from anywhere is silly. It is normal for certain 'role plays' to assess how to react if certain senarios do occur.

[Omah]

"Normally, I don't have much sympathy for Southerners". What? I read this before and it is crazy.

What?

[Omah]

To assume there was not a chance of conflict from anywhere is silly. It is normal for certain 'role plays' to assess how to react if certain senarios do occur.

Surrounding London with SAM sites to protect the "Games" and the interests of the sponsors smacks more of war than sport ..... :idc:

[Kizzy]

Surrounding London with SAM sites to protect the "Games" and the interests of the sponsors smacks more of war than sport ..... :pipe:

You think?...I couldn't possiby say :pipe:

[Omah]

You think?...I couldn't possiby say :pipe:

If you live in London, build your bunker now and stuff it with 3 months provisions, just in case ..... :pipe:

[Shaun]

how delightfully OTT and expensive.

[Kizzy]

I don't thank feck!

[arista]

"Normally, I don't have much sympathy for Southerners,"


Spiffing

[arista]

{"big business" is going to make a packet while ordinary residents will have a summer of hell.}

No Omah
some of the games are in 3-D

[gbuk01]

This is the kind of report which makes me smile as it brilliantly shows the hypocrisy of the UK population. We are quite happy for such armaments to be placed on roof tops in Iraq and Afghanistan in the name of UK security, but when it comes to security which is closer to home, the enthusiasm evaporates. It is good that London will get a glimpse of the reality which is far more extensive in parts of the World where our military are active.

[Pyramid*]

This is the kind of report which makes me smile as it brilliantly shows the hypocrisy of the UK population. We are quite happy for such armaments to be placed on roof tops in Iraq and Afghanistan in the name of UK security, but when it comes to security which is closer to home, the enthusiasm evaporates. It is good that London will get a glimpse of the reality which is far more extensive in parts of the World where our military are active.


A few fms opinions doesn't speak for the UK population.

Unfortunately we live in times that such events are a terrorists dream - It shouldn't have to be the case, I don't necessarily agree with it, but thisis the way the world is 'evolving' and I'm sure those making this decision are in a far more knowledgeable position to have come that conclusion that this may be needed.

Better safe than sorry....

[Marc]

I'll pay for it guys, I can cover that

[joeysteele]

If something did happen and the M.O.D. hadn't been prepared then there would have been massive moans and groans as to why better planning hadn't been done in the first place.
Better to be a bit over the top but also to be safe than sorry,just in case.

[Pyramid*]

If something did happen and the M.O.D. hadn't been prepared then there would have been massive moans and groans as to why better planning hadn't been done in the first place.
Better to be a bit over the top but also to be safe than sorry,just in case.

Once again, we agree Joey.

If they prepare for an eventuality: they are criticised.

If they didn't and something happened: they'd be criticised to hell and back.

I'd rather have the country prepared & ready to defend - regardless of the cost - than not.

[joeysteele]

Once again, we agree Joey.

If they prepare for an eventuality: they are criticised.

If they didn't and something happened: they'd be criticised to hell and back.

I'd rather have the country prepared & ready to defend - regardless of the cost - than not.

So would I Pyramid*, it's a long time since we hosted the Olympics and the World is a very uncertain place with some real crazy people around.
As you say better be prepared,despite the cost,than do nothing or little and get caught out by some fanatics.

There can be no price on security and protecting peoples lives.

[Pyramid*]

[/B]

So would I Pyramid*, it's a long time since we hosted the Olympics and the World is a very uncertain place with some real crazy people around.
As you say better be prepared,despite the cost,than do nothing or little and get caught out by some fanatics.

There can be no price on security and protecting peoples lives.

That's for sure - there are a lot of complete nutjobs about, who only have one focus in life - and that is destroying lives.

The part that amuses me is the sheer hypocrisy: most of the advances in the world (in the main) have originated from the Western World - yet those fanatics/terrorists are happy to utilise such knowledge / advancement/tools that came from same Western World that they claim to despise. Completely crazy.

[Omah]

There can be no price on security and protecting peoples lives.

Security

The security operation is led by the police, with 10,000 officers available, supported by 13,500 members of the armed forces. Naval and air assets, including ships situated in the Thames, Eurofighter jets and surface-to-air missiles, will be deployed as part of the security operation. The cost of security has also increased from 282m to 553m pounds sterling. This will be the biggest security operation Britain has faced for decades. The figure of 13,500 armed forces personnel is more than Britain currently has deployed in Afghanistan. The Metropolitan Police and the Royal Marines performed security exercises in preparation for the Olympics on 19 January 2012, with 50 marine police officers in rigid inflatables and fast response boats, joined by up to 100 military personnel and a Lynx Navy helicopter.

Presumably the tax-payer, not the promoters or sponsors, will be footing that bill ..... :idc:

Security officials are exploiting the Olympics as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to multiply and militarise their weapons stocks, laminating another layer on to the surveillance state. The Games justify a security architecture to prevent terrorism, but that architecture can double to suppress or intimidate acts of political dissent. The Olympic Charter actually prohibits political activism, stating, "no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas". What "other areas" means is open to broad interpretation. So despite Olympics human-rights rhetoric, the charter dictates – if indirectly – that local authorities squelch political activism. On cue, London police recently vowed to scour social media to sniff out any organised protests or disruptions.

The Olympics will militarise London, with surface-to-air missiles at the ready, a Royal Navy battleship moored offshore, and soldiers on patrol. After initially estimating 10,000 security guards would suffice, the London organising committee determined more than double that number would be required. The ministry of defence is filling the gap with about 13,500 military personnel, 4,000 more than are currently based in Afghanistan. Not placated, the US declared it will send its own security to London, including 500 FBI agents.

The Olympics afford an opportunity to test-drive high-tech equipment in an urban setting. Lightweight aerial drones will hover above while "combined firearms response teams" – elite police units replete with snipers – roam below. Thus London 2012 will tender a legacy not touted in bid materials: a repression-ready security state. The military-grade technologies secured during the Olympics-induced state of exception become normalised for workaday policing in the wake of the Games. And this repressive urbanism is expensive: a whopping £1bn and counting.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/apr/04/price-of-london-olympics

[joeysteele]

you are not different though you are the same as pyramid :nono:

I am different from in that, I don't follow the mainstream of having everything others do, I am in good company indeed then with Pyramid* at this time.
What does it matter to anyone else if someone or others decide not to do something most others do.

:hugesmile:Anyway what's your opinion on the topic on this thread.Is the M.O.D right or wrong in your opinion?

[joeysteele]

Security



Presumably the tax-payer, not the promoters or sponsors, will be footing that bill ..... :idc:

Well, to be fair Omah, taxpayers money gets wasted right left and centre by all Governments.

Are you really saying it is a waste of taxpayers money to ensure the protection of UK citizens and visiting athletes from all around the World for this event.
I personally don't think it is.

[Pyramid*]

Security



Presumably the tax-payer, not the promoters or sponsors, will be footing that bill ..... :idc:

And? What price human lives?

Care to show figures on how much revenue that will go back into the economy on the back of the Olympics? I'm quite sure there will be projected figures somewhere for that.

If you are going to copy and paste one set of figures: you may as well copy and past the contrast between the costs of one, and the revenue of another. If not: there's little point as all you are going to do is look at 'one side' and not consider another - which ruins the whole proces of debate.

[Omah]

Well, to be fair Omah, taxpayers money gets wasted right left and centre by all Governments.

I know, I'm a tax-payer ..... ;)

[joeysteele]

I know, I'm a tax-payer ..... ;)

So are all my family taxpayers Omah and most of them would be happy to see this money spent on security.
I will be a taxpayer too when I finish Uni by the way.

[Patrick]

The Olympics are such bollocks and if I hear another thing about how amazing it is that they're being held in London etc I will shoot myself - I'd rather listen to World Cup talk than this.

[Omah]

Care to show figures on how much revenue that will go back into the economy on the back of the Olympics? I'm quite sure there will be projected figures somewhere for that.

Projections are just that - projections ..... :idc:

[Pyramid*]

I know, I'm a tax-payer ..... ;)

As am I.....and in this instance, I'm quite happy for some of my funds to be used for this purpose - even though I'm hundreds of miles away. ;)

I don't have any issue with monies being used in pro-actively protecting the UK and it's citizens: regardless which side of the border they live.

[Omah]

The Olympics are such bollocks and if I hear another thing about how amazing it is that they're being held in London etc I will shoot myself - I'd rather listen to World Cup talk than this.

I tend to agree ..... :thumbs:

[Pyramid*]

Projections are just that - projections ..... :idc:

What you mean is: you've had a look at the projected figures, and realised that the projected revenue figures from the Olympics: and they blow your agrument to smithereens?

You see what I did there..... ;)

[Pyramid*]

The Olympics are such bollocks and if I hear another thing about how amazing it is that they're being held in London etc I will shoot myself - I'd rather listen to World Cup talk than this.

You better get your gun loaded then Patrick: you'll be hearing it for a long while yet.

[Pyramid*]

What you mean is: you've had a look at the projected figures, and realised that the projected revenue figures from the Olympics: and they blow your agrument to smithereens?

You see what I did there..... ;)




London 2012 Olympics: Projected revenue hopes rise by £200m
In the Stratford offices of the London 2012 organisers there is a quiet optimism surrounding the final budget – so much so that the accountants have upped their best estimate of revenue. If everything goes well, the budget is tipped to top £2.15 billion, a rise of around £200 million on the previous anticipated figure.




vs



The cost of security has also increased from 282m to 553m pounds sterling.


:wink:

[Pyramid*]

So are all my family taxpayers Omah and most of them would be happy to see this money spent on security.
I will be a taxpayer too when I finish Uni by the way.


You may not be a tax payer as in from earnings: but you still pay tax Joey on some of the items you yourself will purchase: ie: bottle of wine, few beers, clothing etc. ;)

[thesheriff443]

sounds like an only fools and horses episode,
grandad asks whats those rockets on the roof delboy?
delboys says there fireworks for the olimpicks you plonker
might see if i can pinch a few to sell down the boozer, lubly jubly.

[arista]

sounds like an only fools and horses episode,
grandad asks whats those rockets on the roof delboy?
delboys says there fireworks for the olimpicks you plonker
might see if i can pinch a few to sell down the boozer, lubly jubly.


Spiffing

[michael21]

{"big business" is going to make a packet while ordinary residents will have a summer of hell.}

No Omah
some of the games are in 3-D

:nono: only opening and closing ceremonys

summer of sports on freeview is bliss for me :dance:

[Pyramid*]

- "big business" is going to make a packet while ordinary residents will have a summer of hell ..... :eek:


Small B&B owners, small hotel owners will make money - they are 'ordinary residents'.

Small independent shops and small businesses will make money.

Self employed taxi drivers will make money.

Ordinary working folk such as bus drivers etc: will have the opportunity of overtime, as will many other professions.



Of course it's may be 'hell' given the influx of tourists - but I'm quite sure many of the foreign holiday resorts abroad say the same thing: but they put up with it, and because they benefit from it in one way or another - whether directly or indirectly.

[Kizzy]

Can I just point out the figure of 553m is JUST for security...
Then you have the cost of aquiring the land IN LONDON, the actual stadium, the olympic village, the 'cultural' olympic site...It all adds up.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/davidbond/2012/03/what_will_be_the_true_cost_of.html

[Omah]

Small B&B owners, small hotel owners will make money - they are 'ordinary residents'.

Small independent shops and small businesses will make money.

Self employed taxi drivers will make money.

Ordinary working folk such as bus drivers etc: will have the opportunity of overtime, as will many other professions.

They will all be excluded from the OG "bonanza" - they cannot even use the word "Olympic" - that is reserved for the big corporations in the OG money-making machine - an extra few quid hardly justifies the upheaval ..... :nono:

[Omah]

Can I just point out the figure of 553m is JUST for security...
Then you have the cost of aquiring the land IN LONDON, the actual stadium, the olympic village, the 'cultural' olympic site...It all adds up.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/davidbond/2012/03/what_will_be_the_true_cost_of.html

Exactly - "the true cost of the Games could be nearer £11bn once the £766m price tag for buying the Olympic Park land and £826m of legacy projects are taken into account."

[Pyramid*]

They will all be excluded from the OG "bonanza" - they cannot even use the word "Olympic" - that is reserved for the big corporations in the OG money-making machine - an extra few quid hardly justifies the upheaval ..... :nono:

Who said anything about them using the insignia/ logo.

The massive influx of tourists and people from from all over the UK means more money being spent all over - it's not just the Blue Chip companies and big players that stand to benefit financially.

You need to think of the bigger picture.

I'm sure there will be plenty of 'everyday punters' who have small businesses that will reap the benefits ...... you are kidding yourself on if you don't think that will be the case.

[Pyramid*]

Exactly - "the true cost of the Games could be nearer £11bn once the £766m price tag for buying the Olympic Park land and £826m of legacy projects are taken into account."

Wasn't this thread started to discuss the security and it's 'affect' on the locals...... or are we just digressing into one massive debate concerning the Olympics overall because the figures didn't weigh up in your favour??

[Omah]

Who said anything about them using the insignia/ logo.

The massive influx of tourists and people from from all over the UK means more money being spent all over - it's not just the Blue Chip companies and big players that stand to benefit financially.

You need to think of the bigger picture.

I'm sure there will be plenty of 'everyday punters' who have small businesses that will reap the benefits ...... you are kidding yourself on if you don't think that will be the case.

You're kidding yourself, too ..... I'll bet you believe everything you're told ..... :laugh2:

So far you haven't come up with any firm figures, though ..... :nono:

[Pyramid*]

You're kidding yourself, too ..... I'll bet you believe everything you're told ..... :laugh2:

So far you haven't come up with any firm figures, though ..... :nono:


I did come up with figures: given that the revenue can only be projected - given that the event would have to finish before the beans were counted - I'd say I've put up far better points that you have.

I don't believe everything I am told (and no one is telling me anything - I'm reading and making an educated comment based on what I am reading and from which source - which happened to be the Telegraph)... and if you can't debate without being facetious - you're not worth debating with.

[Omah]

Wasn't this thread started to discuss the security and it's 'affect' on the locals...... or are we just digressing into one massive debate concerning the Olympics overall because the figures didn't weigh up in your favour??

I've supplied figures, but you haven't and, I suspect, you cant't because no-one knows what, if any, spin-off benefits of the OG will be to local residents - we only know that there will be a "ring of steel" surrounding the athletes and their entourages, both in and out of the Villages and Stadiums, to say nothing of the "protection" afforded to foreign dignitaries and OG "officials" - overt policing and covert surveillance will affect every person directly and indirectly involved with the OG - even proximity or comment will justify "investigation" ..... :eek:

[Kizzy]

To be fair I feel the predictions are at best hopeful and at worst lies regarding projected revenue...I also suspect the figures we are aware of relating to spending is only the tip of the iceburg....

[Omah]

I did come up with figures: given that the revenue can only be projected - given that the event would have to finish before the beans were counted - I'd say I've put up far better points that you have.

What figures ?

Projections? or pipedreams ..... :pipe:

I don't believe everything I am told (and no one is telling me anything - I'm reading and making an educated comment based on what I am reading and from which source - which happened to be the Telegraph)... and if you can't debate without being facetious - you're not worth debating with.

OK ..... :xyxwave:

[Pyramid*]

For anyone who actually wants to discuss or consider the immediate and the long term benefits if all goes to plan.:

http://www.esadvertising.co.uk/en/1/2012profile.html



The 2012 Olympics will provide the opportunity for many areas of the City to accelerate proposed regeneration projects as well as creating new ones.Below is an insight of how the London region will benefit from the 2012 games.

The Games could generate more than £32 billion in tourism revenue over the next decade
Mintel | 2008

2012 and London



The Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 will be an essential part of the long-term plans for London. Having absorbed the equivalent of the population of Sheffield in the last 15 years, London is expected to expand by the equivalent of the population of Leeds over the next decade.

A London Plan has been formulated to make sure that this expansion doesn’t encroach on existing green areas, and that the quality of life of Londoners is maintained and improved. The changes necessary for a successful Olympic and Paralympic Games are all consistent with the wider long-term plan for London. The regeneration of the East End - which will reclaim contaminated land for housing and a park area - is a huge project. It will not only generate 9,000 new homes, but also create even more public green space for Londoners to enjoy.



It is estimated that London’s GDP will increase by £5,900 (million) between 2005 and 2016
The Olympics provide the city with an opportunity to promote itself to the international business community and attract additional investment from overseas
Between 2005 and 2016 the gross value added to the tourism economy in the UK is forecast at £518m and in London at £244million,9,000 new homes will be built in turn leading to schools, health facilities and new communities being created,Parklands will be restored and enhanced restoring the recreational and ecological role of the Lower Lea Valley,It is estimated that an additional 8,164 full time jobs will be created in the UK and a further 38,875 created in London,Up to 70,000 volunteer positions will need filling for the duration of the actual events
source:
http://www.esadvertising.co.uk/en/1/2012profile.html (http://www.esadvertising.co.uk/en/1/2012profile.html)

[arista]

The Old Match Factory Tower
is the High point.

One Resident on Ch4News
just claimed his High Flat could be a target.


But with Fighter Jets ready
they are safe.


Also they may be Dummy Missiles


Who ever Attacks
will be Killed fast
and that is Fair.

[Kizzy]

Pfft... I dont believe it, they mean when they have shipped all the benefit claimants to sheffield and leeds... haha

[Omah]

For anyone who actually wants to discuss or consider the immediate and the long term benefits if all goes to plan.:

http://www.esadvertising.co.uk/en/1/2012profile.html

The "article" is a marketing ploy by and for vested interests ..... :bored:

[Pyramid*]

The "article" is a marketing ploy by and for vested interests ..... :bored:

Hey: copy and paste seems to be the only way you yourself debate - can't fault me for doing what you do.... or is it only acceptable for YOU to use that as your argument. ;)

[lostalex]

Why are they telling the enemy where the missiles will be? Certainly that should be a secret you would think.

[thesheriff443]

Why are they telling the enemy where the missiles will be? Certainly that should be a secret you would think.

why would it matter if they know where the missiles are its not like they could do anything to them.

[lostalex]

why would it matter if they know where the missiles are its not like they could do anything to them.

umm, they could target them obviously.

[thesheriff443]

umm, they could target them obviously.

they target people that are not protected not rockets that are.

[lostalex]

they target people that are not protected not rockets that are.

who is "they"?

[thesheriff443]

who is "they"?

terrorists

[Pyramid*]

Why are they telling the enemy where the missiles will be? Certainly that should be a secret you would think.


Originally Posted by thesheriff443 http://cdn.thisisbigbrother.com/blue/viewpost.gif (http://www.thisisbigbrother.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5109538#post5109538)
they target people that are not protected not rockets that are.


who is "they"?

Glass houses alert. :D

[Pyramid*]

Why are they telling the enemy where the missiles will be? Certainly that should be a secret you would think.

It's called a deterrent.

[thesheriff443]

cant see an attack coming from the air to be honest.

[lostalex]

Glass houses alert. :D
why are you smiling? what is happy about what you've said?

[Pyramid*]

why are you smiling? what is happy about what you've said?

I wasn't smiling. I was giving it Big Grin.... :D

If you honestly can't see why I had a big grin, together with what I said: I'm not explaining it to you.

[thesheriff443]

I wasn't smiling. I was giving it Big Grin.... :D

If you honestly can't see why I had a big grin, together with what I said: I'm not explaining it to you.

i did not get it.

[Pyramid*]

i did not get it.

Oh good grief the pair of you.

Irony..... the irony in lostalex asking YOU 'who are 'they' - when he himself had used the same terminology in his own post !

You know, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones and all that.

Wake up !

[thesheriff443]

Oh good grief the pair of you.

Irony..... the irony in lostalex asking YOU 'who are 'they' - when he himself had used the same terminology in his own post !

You know, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones and all that.

Wake up !

i am awake,i now get the connection of the word they, but glass houses looks out of place.

[Pyramid*]

i am awake,i now get the connection of the word they, but glass houses looks out of place.

Like missiles sitting on the top of tower blocks.....

[thesheriff443]

Like missiles sitting on the top of tower blocks.....

im just chaseing my tail with this.

[Pyramid*]

im just chaseing my tail with this.

Perhaps the serious debates side of the forum isn't for you then?

[thesheriff443]

Perhaps the serious debates side of the forum isn't for you then?

thats for me to decide not you!
serious debates.lol

[Kizzy]

The "article" is a marketing ploy by and for vested interests ..... :bored:

Agreed, not exactly impartial is it?

[Omah]

Hey: copy and paste seems to be the only way you yourself debate - can't fault me for doing what you do.... or is it only acceptable for YOU to use that as your argument. ;)

Who faulted you ? I admire someone who substantiates their argument with facts, but that "article" was sheer propaganda .... :idc:

[Omah]

It's called a deterrent.

Some "terrorists" would see it as an invitation, like fortified compounds in Nothern Ireland and Afghanistan, for example.

[lostalex]

Perhaps the serious debates side of the forum isn't for you then?

so you get involved halfway through a conversation, and when i challenge you, you have no answer., Maybe you should keep your mouth shut if you can't even answer simple questions.

How dare you act at all smug or knowledgeable when you havn't contributed ANYTHING to this conversation.

Good on you Sheriff for putting him in his place.

[Omah]

cant see an attack coming from the air to be honest.

Nor could the Americans .....

[lostalex]

Nor could the Americans .....

neigther could the british when the germans were destroying you with doodlebugs until the Americans rescued you. hmmm. Not that i expect the brits to acknowledge the fact that the ONLY reason you still HAVE a country is because America saved you in WW2, but whatever...

[Mystic Mock]

Tbf they are only protecting the civilians of London incase something bad happens while the Olympics is happening because this will be the time when tourists will be visiting London the most because it's such a huge event.

[Omah]

Agreed, not exactly impartial is it?

It could have come straight from Tory Central Office or the Lord Mayor's Parlour ..... :joker:

[lostalex]

London is also enlisting the help of how much American help for security? I hope America is sending the Uk the bill, cause there's no reason we should be paying for it. It's already been admitted by Britain that America is providing alot of the security, including an American ship off the coast of yur tiny little island. The people of the UK better be footing the bill.

[Omah]

London is also enlisting the help of how much American help for security? I hope America is sending the Uk the bill, cause there's no reason we should be paying for it. It's already been admitted by Britain that America is providing alot of the security, including an American ship off the coast of yur tiny little island. The people of the UK better be footing the bill.

Since the UK is, effectively, going on a war footing, I believe America help is still covered by the Lend-Lease Agreeement ..... ;)

[Kizzy]

The Americans will be here to protect their own...As will every other country..
coz we skint! LOL

[Pyramid*]

thats for me to decide not you!
serious debates.lol


I decided nothing. I asked a question.

Who faulted you ? I admire someone who substantiates their argument with facts, but that "article" was sheer propaganda .... :idc:

It considers projected figures and the possibility of the longer term benefits. That doesn't mean it should be ruled out.

Some "terrorists" would see it as an invitation, like fortified compounds in Nothern Ireland and Afghanistan, for example.

Quite possibly : and some would consider a deterrent.

so you get involved halfway through a conversation, and when i challenge you, you have no answer., Maybe you should keep your mouth shut if you can't even answer simple questions.

How dare you act at all smug or knowledgeable when you havn't contributed ANYTHING to this conversation.

Good on you Sheriff for putting him in his place.

Deary me. Once again lostalex trolls.

[Pyramid*]

London is also enlisting the help of how much American help for security? I hope America is sending the Uk the bill, cause there's no reason we should be paying for it. It's already been admitted by Britain that America is providing alot of the security, including an American ship off the coast of yur tiny little island. The people of the UK better be footing the bill.

And once again, lostalex veers it into a USA vs UK debated.

[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17891223

Details of a major Olympic security exercise involving the deployment of Royal Navy ships, RAF helicopters and jets have been unveiled.

Exercise Olympic Guardian takes place on land, sea and air in the London and Weymouth areas between 2 and 10 May.

It has also been revealed that surface-to-air missiles could be deployed at six sites during the games.

Dummy missiles will be placed on two buildings in east London and four other sites as part of the exercise.

The sites, chosen from an original list of 100, include the Lexington Building in Tower Hamlets and the Fred Wigg Tower in Waltham Forest, east London.

The four other London sites identified as suitable for Rapier missiles are Blackheath Common; Oxleas Wood, Eltham; William Girling Reservoir, Enfield and Barn Hill in Epping Forest.

The Ministry of Defence has stressed that the government has not yet decided to deploy ground-based air defence systems during the Games.

Brian Whelan, a resident of one of the east London estates, said firing the missiles "would shower debris across the east end of London".

Standing joint commander General Sir Nick Parker said the decision on the missiles would be taken "at the very highest political level".

Referring to this week's exercise he said the military advice to the government "will depend on the success of that test".

Asked whether debris would fall on urban areas if a missile was fired, Gen Parker said: "I accept that this is a very, very challenging situation."

At a security briefing it was also announced this week's exercise will include:

The berthing of HMS Ocean at Greenwich, with a number of Royal Navy Lynx helicopters on board
The deployment of HMS Bulwark and other ships to Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour
The basing of RAF Typhoon fast jets at RAF Northolt, west London
Helicopters carring snipers also based at RAF Northholt
Royal Navy airborne early warning helicopters and RAF Puma helicopters at a Territorial Army centre in Ilford, east London
The operation of fast jets and helicopters over Greater London and the Home Counties
13,500 military personnel will be involved in protecting the games

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: "The majority of this exercise will be played out in full view of the public and I hope that it will have a secondary effect of reassuring the British people that everything possible is being done to ensure this will be a safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Games."

The overall 23,700-strong security force for the Games includes a mix of military, private security guards and at least 3,000 London 2012 volunteers who will be used at the start of the security process.

There will be 7,500 military personnel who are set to be deployed inside venues to do screening and search tasks, largely in the vehicle search areas.



I'm sure that Londoners will be reassured that a fully-equipped combined services task force will be dominating land, sea and air space ..... :rolleyes:

[Pyramid*]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17891223



I'm sure that Londoners will be reassured that a fully-equipped combined services task force will be dominating land, sea and air space ..... :rolleyes:

How are you 'sure'. Have you asked all Londoners?

[arista]

"Have you asked all Londoners? "


On ITV1London News Tonight
Locals were asked and they agreed it will make everyone safer,
as so many are to be set up.

[Omah]

"Have you asked all Londoners? "

Perhaps my inclusion of :rolleyes: as an expression of irony was neither clear nor specific enough ..... :shrug:

On ITV1London News Tonight
Locals were asked and they agreed it will make everyone safer,
as so many are to be set up.

C4 News has reported that some residents are preparing to challenge the MoD and have instructed solicitors to investigate the legality of imposed weapons emplacement.

[Jamie.]

That's ridiculous. So they want to make residents feel unsafe and uncomfortable having soildiers stood there possibly with guns!? Stupid really

[Pyramid*]

"Have you asked all Londoners? "


On ITV1London News Tonight
Locals were asked and they agreed it will make everyone safer,
as so many are to be set up.

I didn't catch the news tonight. Interesting to see a wholly different point of view from the one Omah is putting over.

'Londoners' ... as Omah referred to: will have opinions of varying degrees so nice to see one post balance out another.

Perhaps my inclusion of :rolleyes: as an expression of irony was neither clear nor specific enough ..... :shrug:



C4 News has reported that some residents are preparing to challenge the MoD and have instructed solicitors to investigate the legality of imposed weapons emplacement.


A serious debate on serious points, is far better addressed with good vocabularly and being able to reasonably articulate - rather than rely constantly on smileys.

Some? How many are 'some'? Two? Twenty two? Residents of where precisely? Which part of London? Within a 10 mile radius of the main event? Or residents from some outlying suburb?

[Omah]

I didn't catch the news tonight. Interesting to see a wholly different point of view from the one Omah is putting over.

'Londoners' ... as Omah referred to: will have opinions of varying degrees so nice to see one post balance out another.




A serious debate on serious points, is far better addressed with good vocabularly and being able to reasonably articulate - rather than rely constantly on smileys.

Some? How many are 'some'? Two? Twenty two? Residents of where precisely? Which part of London? Within a 10 mile radius of the main event? Or residents from some outlying suburb?

Oh dear, you are resorting to pedantic and petty personal attacks ..... :nono:

Physician, heal thyself ..... :pipe:

[Pyramid*]

Oh dear, you are resorting to pedantic and petty personal attacks ..... :nono:

Physician, heal thyself ..... :pipe:

No attack whatsoever - merely my observation - more pointedly, you have confirmed my observations and previous comment: that you do seem unable to debate in a reasonable and civilised fashion - as shown above.

I note you have been unable to answer or address the questions I raised. Is that because you are unable to provide an answer?

[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17943864

Col Jon Campbell, Commander, Joint Ground Based Air Defence, spoke to the BBC to explain how the Rapier missile system might be used to counter an aerial security threat.

That system seems to have mind of its own ..... :eek:

[Omah]

No attack whatsoever - merely my observation - more pointedly, you have confirmed my observations and previous comment: that you do seem unable to debate in a reasonable and civilised fashion - as shown above.

Pot - kettle - black ..... :pipe:

I note you have been unable to answer or address the questions I raised. Is that because you are unable to provide an answer?

No, it's because you prefer to get personal and I don't ..... :idc:

[arista]

Yes Ch4News
and ITV1London tonight will feature this.
Media were there today with the Troops on the Hill.

If a Plane Comes over the sky
they will get orders from the PM to Shoot it down.
As it will be a No Fly Zone area.


Like 9/11
they had no idea
until after the Evil Deadly Planes attacked
the twin towers.



Life In The City.

[arista]

On Now ITV1 London


Blackheath Common Live


They are Great Missiles
able to stop Enemy Aircraft.

locals say its OK

[arista]

Live on Ch4News now

[Kizzy]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17891223

[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18690861

Ground-based air defence systems will be sited at six locations in and around London during the Olympic Games, despite opposition from residents.

The missiles - including rapier and high-velocity systems - will be in place from mid-July, the MoD confirmed.

Plans also include the use of helicopter carrier HMS Ocean, which will be moored in the River Thames.

RAF Typhoon jets will be stationed at RAF Northolt, and Puma helicopters at a Territorial Army centre in Ilford.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said the ground-based air defence systems were "just one part of a comprehensive, multi-layered air security plan" which would provide "both reassurance and a powerful deterrent".

They would go ahead despite objections from a "small number of activists," he said.

"We have undertaken a wide programme of engagement with the communities affected, involving relevant local authorities, landowners, MPs, council leaders, and community meetings.

"These have shown that, while people understandably have questions and concerns which we have sought to answer, broadly speaking communities are supportive of our work."

Some 100 sites were considered as locations for ground missiles, before this was narrowed down to the six final sites which were deemed to offer the best possible protection to the Olympic Park and surrounding area against any air threat.

The sites, and the specific systems to be deployed at them, are:

Lexington Building, Fairfield Road, Bow, Tower Hamlets - high-velocity missile
Fred Wigg Tower, Montague Road Estate, Waltham Forest - high-velocity missile
Blackheath Common, Blackheath (Lewisham/Greenwich) - rapier
William Girling Reservoir, Lea Valley Reservoir Chain, Enfield - rapier
Oxleas Meadow, Shooters Hill, Greenwich/Woolwich - rapier
Barn Hill, Netherhouse Farm, Epping Forest - rapier

The plans have sparked a campaign by residents, who say 1,000 people have signed a petition in protest.

Residents of Fred Wigg Tower have also launched legal proceedings against the missiles' siting.

Solicitors instructed by the residents' association said their challenge is set to reach the High Court on 9 July.

Responding to the MoD's confirmation of the plans Chris Nineham, 49, from Bow, who is part of the Stop the Olympic Missiles campaign said: "This is a decision that flies in the face of good sense and also the opinions and feeling of the people who live in the area."

"Sitting missiles on housing estates makes people feel a lot less secure."

A decision based on the threat level as to whether the systems will remain throughout the Paralympics - from 29 August until 9 September - has yet to be made.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "The government has reserved the right to extend the airspace restrictions, and the deployment of military assets, including ground based air defence, if an assessment of the threat level warrants it."

Overkill ..... or it will be when shrapnel starts falling from the skies ..... :rolleyes:

[Me. I Am Salman]

I live in Tower Hamlets D:

[Me. I Am Salman]

I feel sorry for the residents of Mile End, there was a lot of excitement when Team USA announced their training base will be there, but now the Olympics Committee go and drop this bombshell :laugh:

[Z]

I'd just like to refer to the Olympic Games in Munich as one perfectly good example for why security measures should be taken. It's a hugely important international event. They wouldn't install such measures if they didn't think they were necessary.