In a groundbreaking move, the Royal Air Force (RAF) is set to introduce Indian flying instructors to train its pilots for the first time, as reported by the Daily Express UK. The announcement of this historic collaboration was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his joint visit to Mumbai with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, signifying a notable advancement in military cooperation between India and the UK.
Commencing next year, Indian “Top Guns” will impart flight training to British cadets on Hawk T2 fast jets at RAF Valley in North Wales, starting in October. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance defense partnerships between the two countries, which have already engaged in joint military drills and witnessed the successful visit of the UK-led Carrier Strike Group to India.
Some aviation experts have raised concerns, criticizing the RAF for depending on foreign instructors, especially in light of recent shortages in local training capacity. One former RAF officer highlighted the irony of the situation, acknowledging the proficiency of Indian instructors while noting the shift from the UK’s historical role as a global aviation training hub to the current reliance on external expertise.
The decision to enlist Indian instructors aligns with the RAF’s increasing reliance on international support due to a shortage of qualified trainers domestically. This move will involve at least two Indian Air Force (IAF) aviators stationed at RAF Valley for over three years. However, before commencing training for RAF aircrew, these Indian instructors will undergo a year-long training program on British jets to familiarize themselves with the Hawk T2 aircraft.
While the incoming instructors possess prior flying experience, they will undergo training to adapt to the nuances of operating British aircraft. Once fully trained, they will lead the instruction of RAF aircrew at No 4 Flying Training School at RAF Valley, a pivotal element of the RAF’s pilot training curriculum.
Accommodation for the Indian instructors will be provided by the UK Ministry of Defence, with their salaries covered by the Indian government. This arrangement mirrors previous instances where RAF pilots were sent overseas for training due to training resource shortages.
For instance, in 2023, RAF pilots underwent training in Italy to address a lack of local trainers. Additionally, reports surfaced last year of British pilots being sent to the United States due to insufficient availability of Hawk T2 aircraft for domestic training programs.