Babcock International Group has acquired 11 Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros jet trainers from Apache Aviation to support a new fighter pilot training academy in Dijon, France. The academy will offer several programs, including training for aspiring fighter pilots, certification of L-39 pilot instructors, retraining for already qualified fighter pilots, and training for pilots and advanced controllers in close air support missions.
Photo: Babcock
The academy is situated at a former military base in Dijon, France. Advanced training will be delivered on the L-39 aircraft, based on realistic combat scenarios. With this new operational capability, Babcock aims to support fighter squadrons, military ships, and French and European army units with training missions in the form of aerial targets.
Courses will be specifically tailored to the needs of international air forces and aligned with NATO’s standard operational procedures. The courses at the academy will be designed and delivered by former fighter pilots from the French Air and Space Force.
The L-39 aircraft previously flew as part of the Breitling Jet Team, the only civilian aerobatic team in the world to fly jet aircraft. The Breitling Jet Team, based in Dijon, France, was the largest civilian aerobatic display team in Europe. The Breitling Jet Team has performed numerous demonstrations in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Babcock’s goal is to deliver a complete training system that provides pilots with a comprehensive training experience that reflects a real military flying environment. The training programs aim to develop technical skills and instill essential attitudes for facing field challenges.
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