AEJPT - Advanced European Jet Pilot Training

The ideal for a multinational scheme to deliver collaborative instruction was mooted in 1999. It was projected to train 160 student pilots and 10 weapon system operators a year using advanced jet trainers, simulators and other equipment.  Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 is the favoured airframe, although BAE Systems is also promoting a possible solution using a development of its Hawk 128.

The AEJPT contract was targeted to be sign by early 2014. This would enable the AEJPT system to achieve initial operating capability in 2017 and full operating capability by 2020.

The aim of the Advanced European Jet Pilot Training System (AEJPT) Category B project is to develop a common Integrated Training System (ITS) to train future fighter pilots. This system will most likely comprise not only the aircraft but also the basing infrastructure including Ground Based Training, Academic Training, Mission Planning/Debriefing Systems and the logistics to support the full system.

Category B programmes and projects: One or more participating European Member States can propose this type of cooperation, which is open to other  pMS ("opt-in").

The AEJPT will take into account that future operations will be characterised by the use of fighter aircraft in a network centric environment, with a combination of other air, naval and ground assets (including unmanned platforms). It will also contemplate new operational scenarios other than conventional war.

Update March 2010: Alenia Aermacchi (AAEM), a Finmeccanica company, and EADS Defence and Security (DS) submitted a joint response to the Request For Information (RFI) issued by the European Defence Agency (EDA) for the Advanced European Jet Pilot Training (AEJPT) programme.

Update December 2011: Italy is the supporter of the AEJPT scheme, with its interests linked closely to the proposed supply of Alenia Aermacchi M-346. With 15 new twin-engined transonic M-346 to support the Italian Air Force's LIFT activities from 2012, it remains the lead candidate for Eurotraining if the project advances. The M-346 remains favourite to deliver the Eurotraining syllabus.

Updated On: 12.04.30