Afghanistan: US Pilots High on Drugs

Australian TV channels said Friday US Air Force pilots flying over Afghanistan are given amphetamines before taking off as matter of routine.

According to the media report, US pilots fly combat missions and select their bombing targets while 'stoned' by a dose of SPEED tablets given them by the Air Force authorities. The tablets are dispensed, officially, to prevent fatigue and keep pilots alert. The practice was revealed after a US pilot bombed friendly Canadian forces, killing several soldiers while under influence.

Two Air Force officers interviewed in the news story confirmed the practice is actually observed. If so, we are witnessing a situation where American military personnel have free access to lethal weapons potentially weapons of mass destruction - while under influence of drugs.

If used regularly, amphetamines may cause serious mental problems, addiction and hallucinations.

Henry Marconi PRAVDA.Ru Sydney