BAE Systems has joined forces with Beechcraft and CAE to submit a proposal for the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Air 5428 pilot training system project.
Set out in Defense Capability Plan 2009, the AIR 5428 project aims to provide a new fixed-wing pilot training system to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), navy and the army.
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Led by BAE, the team will offer a total flight training solution to ADF that combines BAE’s extensive training, systems integration and sustainment capabilities with CAE’s leading simulation, training and support services, and Beechcraft’s proven T-6C Texan II primary trainer aircraft.
BAE Systems Aviation Solutions general manager John Quaife said the company’s training specialists have helped deliver flight screening and basic flight training for the ADF since 1992.
Quaife said, ”Beechcraft and BAE Systems are also working together to support pilot training for the United States Navy on the T-6 mission system.
”These experiences and our combined track record in military flight training, complex project management and mission systems sustainment mean we can offer the Commonwealth a low risk, value for money solution to train the world’s best military aviators at a location of its choosing.”
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By GlobalDataThe pilot training systems delivered under the Air 5428 project are expected to cover all facets of undergraduate pilot training, from basic flying up to entry into air force lead-in fighter and operational conversion units.
The BAE-led team is the first to announce teaming arrangements for the project, while other potential bidders, including Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Thales and Raytheon are soon anticipated to disclose their respective partners, FlightGlobal reports.
Lockheed is expected by industry sources to select the Pilatus PC-21 trainer as its primary flying platform, and partner with Hawker Pacific for maintenance services.
Air 5428 project tender is set to close in February 2014, followed by selection by the end of June 2015, and initial operating capability (IOC) in 2015 to 2017 timeframe, according to the news agency.
Image: BAE’s AIR 5428 proposal will feature Beechcraft’s proven T-6C Texan II primary trainer aircraft. Photo: courtesy of BAE Systems.
