Australian Department of Defence, Since its introduction into service in November 2000, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Hawk Lead-In Fighter jet has proved to be an invaluable training asset for the RAAF.
The training value of the aircraft was recognised last month when an impressive 30 thousand hours of flying was achieved on the 12th of September during a flight from RAAF Williamtown.
Manufactured by BAE Systems, the Hawk 127 jet replaced the RAAF Macchi aircraft as the Lead-In Fighter for training fast jet pilots.
The Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd, today praised the efforts of personnel involved in this significant achievement. “The aircraft has proven to be a very capable Lead-In Fighter for our pilots and navigators. I congratulate all those involved in its introduction into service, the personnel at 78 Wing involved in day to day operations as well as everyone who manages the on-going support, on this milestone achievement,” Air Marshal Shepherd said.
“The Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter is critical in ensuring the flow of fast jet crews meets the requirements of squadrons within Air Combat Group and has been a highly effective addition to our fleet.”
Chief Executive Officer Defence Materiel Organisation, Dr Stephen Gumley, also commented on the success of the project.
“BAE Systems have successfully provided Deeper Maintenance support for the aircraft since its introduction into service. This is indicative of the valuable partnership with industry which began at the time of acquisition and continues to develop,” Dr Gumley said.
In addition to its role as a Lead-In Fighter, the Hawk 127 also offers air support for Army and Navy during exercises.
The RAAF has a fleet of 33 Hawks. The aircraft operate out of 76 Squadron at RAAF Williamtown in New South Wales and 79 Squadron at RAAF Pearce in Western Australia.
Pilots and Navigators chosen for fast jet operations spend three months with 79 Squadron learning to fly the Hawk and then move to No 76 Squadron at Williamtown for an Operational Conversion which focuses on fighter operations. They then move to fast jet conversion course at either No 6 Squadron on F-111s at Amberley (QLD) or with No 2 Operational Conversion Unit on Hornets at Williamtown.
Background Notes and Information:
Project Air 5367 – Lead-In Fighter Project was approved for the acquisition of aircraft for Lead-In Fighter pilot training and was awarded to BAE Systems in 1997.
The Lead-In Fighter project was established to provide and support a state of the art fast jet training capability for the RAAF.
The advanced two-seater Hawk 127 has outstanding performance characteristics which are used to train RAAF pilots and is powered by a Rolls-Royce Adour Turbofan.
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