TAMWORTH, Australia – BAE Systems has further expanded its unique military flight instruction program at its Tamworth Flight Training Centre.

Students from the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAF) will shortly commence basic pilot training at Tamworth, reinforcing BAE Systems capability as a leading provider of military flight training services.

Earlier this week in Brunei, Colonel Abu Bakar of the RBAF signed a contract with BAE Systems for five RBAF students to commence basic pilot training at BAE Systems Flight Training at Tamworth on 7 June 2010.

Mr John Quaife, General Manager Aviation Solutions said that “BAE Systems was pleased to partner with the RBAF in providing basic and advanced flying training solutions that will support the RBAF in meeting their pilot capability requirements.”

 “The contract will see five students complete a training program provided solely by BAE Systems instructional staff at the Tamworth flying training college, utilising CT4B training aircraft.” said Mr Quaife.

Worth approximately $700,000 AUD, the contract represents the first phase in a training program that will eventually see the students assigned to operational roles in both rotary wing and the multi-engine fixed wing aircraft operated by the RBAF.

This most recent agreement marks a continuation of a training relationship with Brunei that has been developed over many years.

Back in August 2009, two pilots from No 3 and No 5 Squadrons of the RBAF graduated at Tamworth as Qualified Flying Instructors after attending an intensive, specially designed six-month course.

Mr Quaife has welcomed the trust placed by the RBAF in the quality of training provided by BAE Systems and the ideal facilities and weather afforded by the Tamworth based solution. 

Although the Brunei requirement is modest, the RBAF remains a discerning customer with a clear focus on quality of training and value for money.