Babcock International Group, the defence company, has played a crucial role in training the next generation of Ukrainian Air Force pilots to fly F-16 fighter jets through the ‘Operation Interstorm’ programme. Known for delivering complex engineering services and innovative training solutions, Babcock has collaborated with the Royal Air Force (RAF) to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict.
In a significant milestone, the first cohort of ten Ukrainian pilots have completed the Elementary Flying Training (EFT) phase under the guidance of RAF instructors. This training, encompassing basic flying, ground school, and language skills, marks a critical step in their journey to defend Ukraine’s skies.
Chloe Barker, Managing Director of Babcock’s UK aviation business, said: “We have been working with the RAF in delivering flying training for over 20 years, but Operation Interstorm required a different way of working. Collaboratively, we established a new operating model that could successfully and quickly provide trained pilots into the Ukrainian fast jet training pipeline. This required a new approach to planning and a restructuring of the way we allocate and resource our Grob 115E aircraft. The results were an even higher level of aircraft availability.
“Mobilisation and change at speed have been a challenge and put additional pressure on our systems. However, our teams have gone above and beyond to deliver. Operation Interstorm is a humbling and stark reminder of why our work is so important. Our teams have expressed an immense sense of pride and purpose in their work, knowing they are contributing to something that is not just nationally important, but internationally vital.”
Following their initial training, the Ukrainian pilots will eventually transition to flying F-16 fighter jets. This initiative is part of the broader Air Capability Coalition, involving the United States, Denmark, and the Netherlands, aimed at building a modern air force for Ukraine.
David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, added: “Aircraft availability is crucial to military operations and our team is by the RAF’s side, ensuring the UK’s best flying instructors have everything they need to train Ukraine’s next-generation of fast-jet pilots. As a capability partner, Babcock is proudly supporting Ukraine across land, sea, and air domains. Congratulations to the pilots and good luck with their next stage of training.”
Babcock’s involvement extends beyond pilot training. Under a tripartite agreement with the UK and Ukrainian Governments, Babcock is the lead industrial partner in Ukraine’s Capability Enhancement Programme. This includes the maintenance of naval vessels transferred from the Royal Navy to the Ukrainian Navy and operational support for land armored vehicles like the Challenger 2 tanks.
Babcock’s comprehensive approach ensures that Ukraine’s defense forces are well-equipped and prepared to face ongoing challenges. Through innovative training programs and robust support systems, Babcock is contributing to the development of a resilient and capable Ukrainian Air Force, ready to defend their nation’s sovereignty.
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: UK MOD © Crown Copyright 2024
