Eurotraining - Industry agrees on joint feasibility study

Aermacchi, Dassault Aviation, EADS-CASA, EADS Military Aircraft (Germany) and Saab have signed an Industrial Collaboration Agreement to carry out the feasibility study for the Advanced European Jet Pilot Training (AEJPT).

This step forward was reached shortly prior to the 2002 Farnborough Air Show. The object of the study is the feasibility of establishing a joint European Integrated Training System (Eurotraining) including all flying and ground based training for the advanced and fighter lead-in training phases. An important element will be a modern trainer aircraft based on advanced technologies and performance levels to meet today's and future training needs of European Air Forces.

The Integrated Training System will be a cost-efficient way to prepare young pilots for the operation of modern 4th and 5th generation fighter aircraft in the complex scenarios of the future and multi-national missions demanding a high degree of interoperability. It will be a major step in strengthening the European defence identity by further intensifying the co-operation of Europe's Air Forces and industries in this crucial area.

Aermacchi, Dassault Aviation, EADS-CASA, EADS Military Aircraft and Saab will jointly lead the performance of the feasibility study. A considerable number of other European companies will also be involved in the project covering avionics, simulation and propulsion aspects.

Aermacchi, Dassault Aviation, EADS-CASA, EADS Military Aircraft and Saab have already replied to the Request for Quotation and the relevant offer has been delivered to the Italian Ministry of Defence, who is acting as the executive agency among the participating Air Forces. The contract, expected to be signed before the end of this year, will engage the European industry in a joint activity of about 12 months duration.

REF XQQEE XQQAR