H135 and H145 Preparing for Training Commencement
The first H135 JUNO and H145 JUPITER helicopters destined for the UK Military Flying Training System (MFTS) recently arrived in the UK from in Donauwörth, Germany.
Marking the beginning of a new era in rotary wing flying training for the British armed forces, the helicopters offer trainees the advantage of conducting their initial training on a twin-engine, full glass cockpit aircraft for the first time. Both aircraft, which are fitted with the Airbus HELIONIX advanced avionics suite, are undergoing minor modifications and being integrated into MFTS: training is due to commence on 1 April 2018, which date marks the Royal Air Force’s 100th anniversary.
Ian Morris, Head of UK Defence Business at Airbus Helicopters, said, “The H135 and H145 are proven multirole helicopters in both civil and military segments and have become the aircraft of choice for military flying training across the globe. The latest HELIONIX versions provide a level of technology which mirrors that on UK front line aircraft, ensuring all future UK military student pilots and crewmen can make the best possible transition from training to operations.