https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business...cut-costs-mod/
Pay-as-you-go RAF training jets could cut costs for MOD
A Royal Air Force contractor has signed a deal that paves the way for a pay-as-you-go training system for fighter pilots.
AirTanker, which
rents Voyager refuelling craft to the RAF, has signalled that it is interested in renting out jet trainer aircraft that could be used to train fighter pilots.
It has signed a deal with Aeralis, which is
positioning itself to provide a replacement for the RAF’s Hawk trainer aircraft. As well as training, its modular jets can be fitted with different suites of weaponry to also serve as attack aircraft.
AirTanker and Aeralis say they can provide cost-effective training for British warplane pilots and their allies and will discuss a “model” for doing so.…..
As well as teaching pilots to fly in a jet-powered aircraft, the platform is capable of being fitted with twin engines and training pilots in combat scenarios.
Aeralis said its jet should offer “significantly lower financing, acquisition and operating costs for aircraft compared to incumbents, paving the way for enabling a wide range of ‘on-demand’ operational air support services as part of the future of air force fleets.”
The jet is still in development but will fly in the next three years. Last year it
won the backing of Rolls-Royce and ejector seat firm Martin Baker, as well as investment from the Royal Air Force’s Rapid Capabilities Office to test its system to allow electronic components to be swapped in and out and upgraded without the aircraft needing a costly recertification by regulators.
Its modular craft, sharing 85pc common parts, should help shave 30pc off costs over the life of the craft compared to a bespoke jet, which requires specific training and parts to maintain.
AirTanker started off as a collaboration between Airbus, Babcock, Cobham, Rolls-Royce and Thales, but Rolls, Babcock and Cobham sold out. It is now owned by Airbus, Thales and Equitix Investment Management.