Air Force Lead-In Fighter reaches milestone flying hours

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter has achieved a significant milestone, reaching 100,000 flying hours.

Defence Head of Aerospace Systems Division, Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Catherine Roberts, said this achievement is the result of combined dedication from Defence crews (both flying and technical), along with the enduring partnership with BAE Systems Australia and BAE Systems UK.

“This milestone highlights the ongoing success for the Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter fleet as an effective and reliable training platform in preparing RAAF pilots and aircrew to operate jet fighters in the protection of Australia's national security,” AVM Roberts said.

“The partnership with Defence’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, RAAF, and BAE Systems Australia is an excellent example of Defence and industry working together to provide capability for our Australian Defence Force” the AVM said.

“The partnership will continue to grow with BAE Systems Australia taking over operational maintenance from the Air Force from 1 July 2016.”

The Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter is a tandem, two-seat jet aircraft primarily used to prepare the RAAF’s fast jet aircrew for operational conversions to the F/A-18 Hornet, F/A-18 Super Hornet and, ultimately, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

BAE Systems’ current in-service support contract for the fleet was initially awarded in July 2013 for five years, with potential extensions out to 2026.

Imagery will be made available at: 
http://images.defence.gov.au/S20161220

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