Article Posted on : - Jun 24, 2010

The Hawk AJT. A BAE Photo

RAF VALLEY, UK (BNS): The British Royal Air Force’s Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) has achieved a significant milestone by completing 500 sorties and 500 flying hours since its induction in the air force in April 2009.

The RAF had received the first batch of the Hawk AJTs, also known as TMk2, from the BAE Systems in 2009. The aircraft has been designed to train fast aircraft pilots.

“To complete over 500 sorties and flying hours in the Hawk TMk2 is a great achievement. Since coming into service with 19 (Reserve) Squadron last April the aircraft has caused quite a stir at RAF Valley as a world leading fast jet trainer,” Wing Commander Brian Braid said.

BAE Systems has delivered 23 Hawk AJTs to the RAF so far while the remaining five are slated to be handed over this year.

The company has also got a £111 million contract from the UK Ministry of Defence for supporting and maintaining the trainer aircraft fleet in the RAF.

BAE is presently providing support service to the RAF’s Hawk TMk1 fleet of aircraft.