BAE Systems has been awarded an 11-year contract to continue its support for the UK’s Royal Air Force Hawk fleet - secures hundreds of engineering jobs at RAF Valley on Anglesey.
The £590million contract will support the island airbase, home to No. 4 Flying Training School, which responsible for training the UK's next generation of world-class fighter pilots.
As well as providing availability support to the RAF’s Hawk T2 fleet, BAE Systems and its partner Babcock International will provide depth maintenance to the RAF’s iconic Red Arrows display team from RAF Valley, ensuring the Hawk fleet continues as a global ambassador for the UK.
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The Hawk aircraft is heralded by the RAF as its chosen jet trainer to train its student pilots who will ultimately go on to operate aircraft including Typhoon, F-35 and next generation combat aircraft.
BAE Systems has provided support to the Hawk fleet for 12 years. The new contract will deliver efficiencies through new ways of working and harnessing the use of technology to drive savings which will be reinvested into the RAF’s training capability.
Andrea Thompson, managing director – Europe & International, BAE Systems’ Air sector, said: “As the UK’s sovereign combat air capability provider, we pride ourselves in our close work with the RAF to understand its training and operational requirements; supporting the RAF to equip pilots with the skills, capabilities and equipment they need to safeguard national security.
“Through this collaborative approach with the RAF and our industry partners, we have secured a long term continuation of Hawk support, which will deliver improved value for money and allow savings to be reinvested which will ultimately benefit the UK’s air power talent and capability.”
Ynys Mon MP Virginia Crosbie said: "This is excellent news for the island and it means that we retain this expertise and highly skilled jobs at RAF Valley.
"The base is a big employer and something Anglesey is very proud of. This vote of confidence by the UK Government is welcome.
"It also shows the commitment we have to ensure the UK is protected and that the RAF has some of the best facilities, equipment and training available anywhere in the world."
