Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department made of the suitability of the Texan T1 for operations from RAF Y Fali prior to the transfer of basic flying training to Y Fali from Linton-on-Ouse.

The Military Flying Training System Fixed Wing Element contract was for a system of training covering three different aircraft types selected by the bidder to provide Elementary Flying Training, Basic Flying Training (BFT) and Multi-Engine Flying Training, along with associated qualified instructors, infrastructure, course-ware, advanced simulation and aircraft engineering support across a multiple training RAF Stations. The procurement of modern glass cockpit turboprop trainer aircraft for the BFT role enabled much more sophisticated training which better prepares our trainee aircrew for the frontline. Coupled with an increase in simulator training, the overall live flying element of the BFT course has been reduced for each student.

Alongside the procurement contract, the collocation of BFT with Texan alongside the Advanced Training of Hawk T2 at RAF Valley provided additional benefits of shared infrastructure and support efficiencies, alongside use of the existing Valley Aerial Tactics Area airspace. This has enabled the wider rationalisation of UKMFTS training estate, delivering better value for money while also generating further job and investment opportunities at RAF Valley supporting the regional economy.