The RAF’s most advanced jet trainer, the Hawk T2, marked its 10000th Flying hour at RAF Valley on 18th November 2013. The milestone was passed as two IV(R) Squadron aircraft conducted an Air Combat Training mission over North Wales.
The formation was led by Wing Commander Dan Beard, Officer commanding IV(R) Squadron. On his wing was Flight Lieutenant James Boning, one of the squadron’s most recently qualified flying instructors.
Wing Commander Beard said ‘The 10000th hour is another important milestone in the history of the Hawk T2 and landmark moments such as this are testament to the hard work and dedication demonstrated by all members of the Sqn, be they Service or civilian.’
Originally a Harrier squadron at RAF Wittering, IV(R) Squadron re-formed at RAF Valley as part of the new United Kingdom Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) and embarked on a unique partnership with Ascent, a civilian company, to produce a revolutionary flying training system designed to train the latest generation of RAF and Royal Navy fighter pilots with the skills they need to progress to the front line.
The Hawk T2 uses a glass cockpit and systems emulating that of the most modern front line aircraft, providing the very best training to students. This is backed up by a fully capable synthetic training suite. The aircraft are maintained by BAE Systems and Babcock International.
With the first two student courses already graduated and flying on the Tornado GR4 and Eurofighter Typhoon, IV(R) Squadron faces a busy and exciting time ahead it continues to produce the next generation of fighter pilots with a world leading training system.
Editor: Sqn Ldr Williams
Photographs: Cpl Dixon
You must be logged in to post a comment.