Lockheed Martin, Pilatus File Bid For Aussie Pilot Training System

Lockheed Martin Australia and Pilatus Aircraft, supported by Hawker Pacific, have jointly launched a bid to provide a new pilot training system for the Australian Defence Force. 

The consortium, known as Team 21, submitted its proposal for the AIR 5428 Pilot Training System on March 31st. Under the proposal, Australian Defence Force pilots will graduate from a proven training system tailored to Australian requirements. 

The companies in this team are currently in the eighth year of a 20-year performance-based flight training contract to provide the Basic Wings Course (BWC) to the Republic of Singapore Air Force, at Royal Australian Air Force Base Pearce in Western Australia. 

“Team 21 offers superior performance, a proven team in Australia and capability for the future,” said Raydon Gates, Lockheed Martin Australia chief executive. “We have an established track record and have now graduated 20 classes from a Pilatus PC-21 based pilot training program at RAAF Base Pearce. BWC has very similar mission and support systems as proposed for AIR 5428, significantly reducing risk to the Commonwealth.” 

“Team 21’s proven experience provides an excellent foundation for a cost-effective, off-the-shelf solution tailored to prepare Australian Navy, Army and Air Force pilots for fourth and fifth generation aircraft capability,” said Markus Bucher, Pilatus chief executive officer. 

Selection of Team 21’s comprehensive pilot training solution will provide Australia with a fifth generation training system, delivering a safe, affordable and practical solution for today’s training needs while also supporting future requirements.