Babcock strengthens fighter pilot training in France

Image courtesy Babcock

The acquisition, from Apache Aviation, strengthens Babcock’s capabilities to support the training and development of air force pilots.

The academy, located on a former military base in Dijon, France, will offer programmes including the training of future fighter pilots, L-39 pilot instructor certification, retraining of already qualified fighter pilots and training for pilots and advanced controllers (JTAC) in close air support missions.

The courses, designed and delivered by former fighter pilots from the French Air and Space Force, will be specifically tailored to the needs of international air forces and aligned with NATO’s standard operational procedures. Advanced training will also be delivered on the L-39 aircraft, based on realistic combat scenarios.

With this new operational capability, Babcock aims to support fighter squadrons, military ships and French and European army units with training missions in the form of aerial targets.

Pierre Basquin, Babcock’s Chief Executive Aviation and CEO France, said: “Military pilot training is a critical component of our customers’ defence capabilities. Expanding our military training activity aligns with our ambition to support our customers’ needs, both in the short and long term. With our expertise and infrastructure, we deliver a complete training system which provides military pilots with a comprehensive training experience that reflects a real military flying environment.

“Our programmes will develop technical skills and instil essential attitudes for facing field challenges. By closely collaborating with our clients, we will ensure the continuous adaptation of our methods and tools to guarantee training that remains at the forefront of innovation.”

The L-39 aircraft have flown previously as part of the Breitling Jet Team, the only civilian aerobatic team in the world to fly jet aircraft. The Breitling Jet Team has performed numerous demonstrations in Europe, North America and Asia.