My first posting in the RAF (RAF Locking near Weston-super-mare) was a training unit for radar operators/engineers and as a result we were the holding unit for quite a bit of (expensive) radar kit.
One day we received a signal from Command asking us to scrap 12 very expensive ‘valves’ that were used in the main air defence radars used by the RAF both in the UK and Falklands. To ensure we scrapped the right ones a list of serial numbers was included but, given the cost of the items, we contacted Command by phone to double check.
“The serial numbers are as listed, what is so difficult to understand” was the response we got from a desk jockeying Chief Tech.
I think you can see where this is going…
The serial numbers were actually those of the serviceable valves, the Chief Tech had interpreted the manufacturer’s instructions incorrectly.’Lil old LAC Sootyandjim and his trusty sledgehammer “made unusable” £14.4 million worth of previously perfectly serviceable equipment one sunny Friday afternoon, leaving the RAF without serviceable spares for 4 months.
No disciplinary action was taken against us mere Stackers, I don’t believe the Chief Tech got away so lightly.