Why did the ground RAF command staff and the flight leader veto 'Scimitar 2' (flown by Flight Lieutenant [Flt Lt] Chris Drake) from engaging the unknown contact? Which to all intents and purposes was being aggressive. It disabled the on-board flight avionics of the two F3 Tornado aircraft for instance.
If impersonating a Police Officer is an offence, shouldn't actors be imprisoned?
I know it's been awhile since this question was posted. From what I just picked up from episode 1, here is one possibility.
It seems the command (ground) staff simply were unable to perceive or comprehend the threat that the pilot experienced. The pilot surely reacted properly since the alien craft not only disabled their controls, but chased, which made an impact situation possible. Not to mention, the pilot witnessed the non-standard size, speed, shape, and mobility of the craft.
However, in the military, disobeying orders is against rules and regulations and is a punishable offense.
I'll post an update if subsequent episodes provide more information to justify the ground staff response.