Opportunity lost?

Window for integrated ADF pilot training closing?

Over the next six to eight years the Department of Defence will replace the key elements of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) pilot training system through projects AIR 5428 (Fixed Wing Pilot Training) and AIR 9000 Phase 7 (Helicopter Aircrew Training System) and will upgrade the Lead-in-Fighter Training System through Air 5438 (Lead-in Fighter Capability Assurance Program.) As a result of delays with AIR 5428, the Department of Defence is also contracting for an Interim Basic Flying Training capability.

In an ideal world, the pilot training continuum would be treated as an integrated system, from candidate selection, through basic and advanced pilot training, specialist training / type conversion up to the point of qualification as an operational “combat ready” pilot. The current ADF pilot training system is not managed as a single integrated system; however, the coincidence of Projects AIR 5428 and AIR 9000 Phase 7 provides an opportunity to design and deliver an integrated solution that affords the ADF an effective, efficient, state-of-the-art approach to flying training. Unfortunately, the replacement pilot training capabilities appear to be being procured as discrete stove-piped projects. Might this prove to be a lost opportunity?