The first Australian pilot is set to start training to fly the new and advanced F-35A Lightning combat aircraft.Squadron leader Andrew Jackson will begin initial flight training at Eglin US Air Force base in Florida in the United States this week.But his first flight in the world's most sophisticated combat aircraft could still be some months away. And it might not be aboard either of Australia's two Lightning aircraft.
Australia's second F-35A pilot Squadron leader David Bell, a qualified test pilot, will start training in mid-2015.Squadron leader Jackson said he was excited to take this leading role in the introduction of these advanced combat aircraft.'The fifth generation F-35A capabilities represent a quantum shift over legacy fighters. I am looking forward to the training challenge it will present,' he said in a statement.He said the Lightning would give its pilots a level of situational awareness that far exceeded older aircraft.
'Experiencing this level of capability first hand is something every pilot dreams of,' he said.
Squadron leader Jackson will eventually serve as an instructor pilot for Australian F-35A pilots and those from other nations.He was selected for his operational flying skills, extensive experience and leadership.Australia is committed to buy 72 JSF aircraft with the first arriving from the US in late 2018.The first two rolled off the production line last year. They will remain in the US in pool of training aircraft.
The RAAF's first operational JSF squadron to be established by 2020, replacing ageing F/A-18A/B Hornets at RAAF Bases Williamtown (NSW) and Tindal (NT).
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