A fresh £300 million investment in cutting-edge flight training is set to revolutionise how Royal Air Force and Royal Navy aircrew are prepared for the demands of modern warfare, the Ministry of Defence has announced.
Awarded to Ascent Flight Training, the new eight-year contract will see up to 140 aircrew trained annually, quadrupling the current capacity. The programme aims to deliver a new era of technologically advanced, environmentally efficient flight training for the UK’s Armed Forces.
The initiative also promises wider benefits, including job creation, regional investment, and upgraded infrastructure at two key bases: RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire and Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall.
Training for Tomorrow’s Battlefields
The MOD says the new facilities will feature state-of-the-art simulation environments, reducing the number of required in-air training hours while cutting carbon emissions and training costs.
“This significant investment represents important progress in preparing our Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel for the challenges of modern warfare,” said Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle.
“Not only will this state-of-the-art training ensure our Armed Forces remain at the forefront of military readiness, but it also delivers on our Plan for Change by creating high-quality jobs and strengthening local economies.”
The UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS), responsible for aircrew instruction, will benefit from enhanced infrastructure and access to the latest aviation technologies, including training on remotely piloted systems and multi-role aircraft.
High-Tech, High-Impact Training
Captain Polly Hatchard, UKMFTS Team Leader, emphasised that the contract reinforces the UK’s long-term defence priorities.
“This is a significant step forward for the UK’s defence capabilities. It ensures that personnel have access to world-class training resources and underlines our commitment to readiness and operational effectiveness, while also investing in the UK’s regional economies.”
The updated programme will incorporate Future ISTAR and Rear Crew Training Systems, allowing crews to safely train for frontline roles aboard the latest aircraft, including:
- RAF Poseidon MRA1
- Rivet Joint
- Wedgetail
- Merlin Mk2 and Wildcat helicopters
- Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted air systems
Air Commodore Rob Caine, RAF Head of Flying Training, said these innovations are essential to maintaining an edge in today’s fast-changing operational environment.
“The new system ensures our Mission Aircrew are trained to operate the most advanced capabilities available to the Armed Forces. This includes integration with our newest aircraft and systems vital to the UK’s surveillance and strike operations.”
Supporting Defence Growth
The investment comes amid a broader uplift in defence spending, with the Government recently confirming its commitment to reaching 2.5% of GDP on defence by 2027.
With increased demand for technologically capable personnel and a greater focus on rapid deployment platforms, the MoD views this training upgrade as a vital part of maintaining a battle-ready force.
The advanced facilities at Cranwell and Culdrose are expected to become national hubs for mission-ready training, equipped to handle the full spectrum of modern flight challenges, from manned aircraft to autonomous systems.
