Good call Vigilant,
We actually have a good mixture right now of both North American and UK/European pilots. As far as ping goes I'd say we're definitely based out of US however we connect via direct IP for squad operations and there have never been lag issues. When we wish to fly co-op as a squad against other humans we will be utilizing some of the more popular HL servers like Winds of War, WarClouds and so on. If interested please check us out. Our dedicated squad times are Fridays 9PM EST/2AM GMT and Sundays 6PM EST/11PM GMT all other night are considered off nights however those of us available will routinely meet up on off nights to train/fly.
www.sim.lightning-bolt.net
Cheers!