Interesting point raised about the quality of NFTC studes. After flying both the T1 at Valley and now the 115 in Canada, it appears that NFTC is an excellent lead in for the modern day front line. That's not to belittle the standard of training or output from Valley, but the value of operating an aircraft with a HUD, MPD, INS/GPS, HOTAS and a modern weapon aiming and control system cannot be underestimated. The T1 may well prepare you for flying a fast jet, but cannot possibly prepare you as well as the 115 for operating a modern day glass cockpit. Many people may initially view NFTC in the same light as previous NATO flying training programmes, but the students here can already fly a fast jet and are being taught to apply those skills in operating in an environment more akin to todays front line. Canada offers a low flying training area the size of Europe, unlimited access to a vast air to ground range with the added benefits of flying with an ACMI pod. The students here are also introduced to more advanced scenarios such as leading a low level 4v1 mission. But with the first students arriving on OCUs as we speak, the front line will be able to form their own opinions of NFTC. However, Edmonton is nothing compared to a rockin' night out in Bangor...!
