RAF-IAF
Colonial reversal: IAF ‘Top Guns’ to train RAF pilots for the first time in history
In a historic turn of events symbolising a colonial-era reversal, ‘Top Guns’ from the Indian Air Force (IAF) will soon train pilots of the Royal Air Force (RAF) under a landmark defence pact recently signed between India and the United Kingdom.
The “unprecedented” move, announced by Indian PM Narendra Modi will see Indian “top guns” teach British cadets how to fly Hawk T2 fast jets from October next year, reported The Daily Express.
A Joint Statement issued by India and the UK during British PM Keir Starmer's recent visit to Mumbai said: "In the context of cooperation on training, the two Leaders welcomed progress on an arrangement that will see Indian Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors integrated into UK Royal Air Force training, alongside an agreement that will facilitate our strong training and education relationship."
The decision to bring Indian instructors has been taken at a time when the RAF is seeking international assistance due to a shortage of qualified trainers.
The Daily Express reported that the RAF is experiencing a pilot shortfall following a disastrous diversity recruitment drive forced the head of the force to apologise.
The recruitment directive saw an email sent to senior leaders telling them to stop choosing “useless white male pilots” in an attempt to improve diversity and was found to be unlawful in 2023, the newspaper reported.
Tim Davies, a former RAF pilot told The Daily Express the Indian instructors would be an “asset” but warned it could take over a year for them to become familiar with British aircraft.
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