[andyjohnson0]

TA is the UK Territorial Army, approximately equivalent to the US Reserve Forces or National Guard.

The group were convicted of discussing the idea of driving a bomb under the base's gate attached to a remote controlled car [1]. They didn't actually do it. They also discussed obtaining weapons, but didn't do that either. They did arrange to attend terrorist training camps in Pakistan, but its not clear from the news reports whether they actually travelled there.

EDIT: According to [2] one of the group did go abroad for training.

[1] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22178105

[2] http://www.theguardian.com/uk/2013/apr/18/four-jailed-toy-ca...

[okamiueru]

That sounds a bit disconcerting. I've discussed things like how to beat airport security, plant bombs to do the most damage, and in general ways to circumvent security measures. It's simply an intellectual curiosity, one even necessary to make things safe, and protect against those who think the same, but with intent of causing harm.

If the discussion alone is the damning part, with disregard to the intent... coupled with some prejudice, and add irrational fear.

Self censorship is what you get.

[coo]

Media may have used the term "discussed" but they were convicted for plotting. By legal definition, in order to commit a crime there has to be a proved conscious intent and actions taken. Even grouping together is considered an action, I assume for 16 years they've dome more than that. There was also existing home made bomb.

Sorry this guy is a criminal and a murderer, his value to society is pretty low to considering he hasn't done anything of a value in his life, except moving to UK.

[andyjohnson0]

I suspect that in this case there was substantial indication of intent. There was clearly evidence of conspiracy.