Bristol, England 23 November 09 - Four KingAir 350ER aircraft have arrived in the UK as part of the UK Military Flying Training System’s Rear Crew Stage 1 Programme.

The Programme, which is managed by Ascent Flight Training as part of their UKMFTS role, includes replacement of the current Jetstream fleet with the new, advanced KingAir 350ER, featuring the Proline21 Integrated Avionics Suite. Ascent is a joint venture between Lockheed Martin UK and VT Group.

The aircraft arrived at Bournemouth International Airport from the Hawker Beechcraft facility in Wichita, Kansas after a two-legged transit including a non-stop transatlantic flight.

“The arrival of the KingAir 350ER aircraft is another milestone in the UKMFTS programme," said Ascent Managing Director Sir Barry Thornton. “Once in service the aircraft will deliver a step change in capability in training Royal Navy Observer aircrew.”

The aircraft have already been modified under Supplemental Type Certificate to include a new radome that will eventually house the Telephonics 1700 Search Radar.

They will be further modified to include a Tactical Mission Training (TMT) system housed on two Student Consoles and two Instructor Operator Stations. The TMT will provide navigation, tactical and sensor modules, and includes both simulated and live radar. Additionally, a jump seat will be installed just aft of the cockpit.

The modification will be designed and installed by Cobham Aviation under contract to Ascent. 

All four aircraft are planned for military release to service in 2011 and will be part of the training solution for ab-initio Royal Navy Observers at RNAS Culdrose.

Notes to Editors

Ascent Flight Training is the Ministry of Defence’s Training System Partner for the 25 year delivery of the United Kingdom Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS). UKMFTS will replace the present flying training arrangements for the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the Army Air Corps.  It will cater for the different training needs of all UK military air crew: from the training of fast-jet, rotary wing and multi-engine pilots, to rear crew. 

Media contacts:  Carolyn Nelson, +44(0)7810 771 688, carolyn.nelson@lmco.com
Phil Rood, +44(0)7941 164 756, phil.rood@vtplc.com