Advanced Jet Trainer
The Advanced Jet Trainer is essential for training military pilots, connecting basic skills to combat readiness. The BAE Systems Hawk is a key Advanced Jet Trainer used by the Royal Air Force and others. It is known for its versatility, featuring advanced controls for fighter maneuvers and weapon training. The Dassault-Dornier Alphajet offers agility and performance for NATO training. This lightweight aircraft is efficient and excels in advanced flying, formation flying, and ground attack training. Japan's Kawasaki T-4 is the leading Advanced Jet Trainer, equipped with advanced technology. It helps pilots transition to frontline fighters, with a modern cockpit designed for current aerial warfare. These aircraft represent the latest in training, merging technology and performance to prepare future military pilots.
BAE Hawk
The BAE Hawk is a British advanced jet trainer designed and manufactured by BAE Systems. First introduced in the 1970s, it has become a mainstay of military training programmes worldwide, renowned for its agility, versatility, and performance. The aircraft features a low-wing monoplane design with a tandem cockpit arrangement, enabling instructors and students to train side by side. Its robust construction and advanced avionics systems allow for simulated combat conditions, making it an invaluable tool for developing the skills necessary for modern air combat. In addition to its training capabilities, the Hawk has been adapted for light attack roles, demonstrating its multifaceted applications in various air forces across the globe.
Seen above are two of the 4 Hawk jets that Ravn Aerospace sent to RAF Lakenheath during 2023 as adversary training aircraft
Seen below on departure from RAF Fairford after the Royal International Air Tattoo is ZB131 of the Qatar Air Force
Seen above coming in to land at RAF Valley on Anglesey, North Wales is ZK019 from RAFs IV Squadron
Seen below about to touch down at RAF Valley is ZK019
Kawasaki T-4
The Kawasaki T-4 is a versatile and advanced trainer aircraft developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). First introduced in the mid-1990s, this aircraft serves as a key component in the training of pilots for both fixed-wing and jet operations. Featuring a high-wing design, the T-4 is equipped with twin turbofan engines that provide exceptional performance and manoeuvrability, allowing trainee pilots to experience flying characteristics similar to combat aircraft.
With a maximum speed of approximately 1,050 km/h and an operational ceiling of 13,000 metres, the T-4 is designed for a variety of missions, including basic flight training and advanced operational training. Its cockpit is fitted with modern avionics and instrumentation, facilitating a smooth transition for pilots to more complex aircraft. The T-4's sleek design and performance capabilities highlight its role as a vital asset in ensuring the readiness and skill of Japan's military aviators.
Seen below are a selection of photos of JASDF Kawasaki T-4s from several Air Bases in Japan that we visited back in 2022 including Gifu, Iruma and Komatsu
Aermacchi M-345
The Aermacchi M-345 is a modern jet trainer developed by the Italian aerospace company Leonardo. Designed to meet the training requirements of air forces around the world, the M-345 features advanced avionics, a streamlined design, and a powerful turbofan engine, which ensure efficient performance and low operating costs. Its integrated training system provides realistic learning environments for pilots transitioning to more advanced combat aircraft, making it an ideal platform for both basic and advanced flight training. Additionally, the aircraft is equipped with advanced systems for mission simulation and enhanced situational awareness, aligning with contemporary training needs in military aviation.
Seen below is a couple of photos of CSX55223 leaving RAF Fairford after a successful visit to the airbase for the 2023 instalment of the Royal International Air Tattoo
Dornier Alpha Jet
The Dornier Alpha Jet is a light attack and advanced trainer aircraft developed in the 1970s by the German company Dornier and the French government. Renowned for its agility and versatility, the Alpha Jet is designed for both civilian and military applications. It features a sleek, aerodynamic structure, twin-engine configuration, and a tandem seating arrangement that allows for effective training of pilots. With the capability to perform various roles, including ground attack, reconnaissance, and training missions, the Alpha Jet has been used by several air forces around the world, showcasing its reliability and performance in diverse operational environments. Its combination of modern avionics and robust design continues to make it a respected platform in military aviation.
Seen below are several examples of Dornier Alpha Jets owned and operated by Top Aces a defence contractor specializing in airborne training services, Top Aces spent a several months during 2023 at RAF Lakenheath with airframes based for training purposes
