Depends if he self manages the training (Modular / £50k), or pays for a zero-to-hero course (Integrated / £90k).
The other £30k is if he has to pay for his own type rating on something big.
I agree about the intense 18 months bit, and also "ex military" and "ex military qualified pilot" are not the same thing. I too am the former, but not the latter - I do fly professionally (part time), and do make use of aspects of what the RAF taught me, but am not in the same place as somebody who has/had the right to wear RAF wings in some significant ways.
G