The UK government and its industry partner Ascent Flight Training (a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and VT) have released an RFI for the UK’s multi-service Military Flying Training System (MFTS) program.
The RFI seeks a 25 year flying training solution covering fixed wing, rotary wing and rear crew training requirements, with a reported preference for a single contractor. The contractor will provide “fully supported and maintained aircraft that will be used to provide elementary, basic and multi-engine pilot training for the UK armed forces, incorporating all aircrew disciplines”, the RFI states. Ascent will provide training facilities, ground instruction, course syllabus and other facilities under the deal.
Two elements of the MFTS, fast jet training on the new Hawk 128 (pictured), and the observer training on the King Air, have already been let to BAE Systems and FR Aviation respectively.