First Flight For Texan T1 Training Aircraft

The T1 will replace the Tucano in the fast jet training programme (Picture: MOD).

The first flight of the Texan T1 training aircraft has taken place at RAF Valley.

The aircraft is part of a £1.2 billion investment into fixed-wing aircraft training under the Military Flight Training System (MFTS), a programme designed to train and prepare junior pilots for the frontline.

Personnel will begin training on the Prefect, before moving on to the Texan T1 and finishing flying the Hawk T2.

The T1 will replace the Tucano in the fast jet training programme and has the ability to simulate missions in both fourth and fifth-generation aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning and Typhoon.

Defence Minister Stuart Andrew said: "It’s crucial that our fighter pilots of the future train on the very best equipment before reaching the front line to protect UK airspace at home and defend our interests abroad.

"The introduction of the Texan T1 into one of NATO’s most advanced Fighter Pilot training programmes demonstrates the RAF’s commitment to investing in world-leading technology to maintain a military advantage over our adversaries."

Wing Commander Chris Ball, Officer Commanding the Texan Integration Squadron at RAF Valley said: "Under the Military Flying Training System, fighter pilots will train on world-leading aircraft.

"The Texan is the ideal lead-in trainer to the Hawk T2 advanced jet trainer that they will fly here at Valley."