A UK-based test pilot school operated by QinetiQ has signed a training agreement with the Republic of Korea Air Force to prepare pilots for advanced flight test operations.
Under the agreement four students – two flight test pilots and two flight test engineers – will undertake six months of advanced study at the Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS), based at MoD Boscombe Down following a year of preparatory training in Korea.
Major Seo Young Yeop, Republic of Korea Air Force, said, “With its long-standing reputation for excellence, access to a diverse fleet of platforms and its proven track record of delivering mission-focused training, ETPS provides the ideal environment for our future test professionals to thrive.
@The opportunity to learn within such an internationally respected program will equip our teams with the advanced skills and global perspective they need, to meet the demands of modern flight test operations.”
Cdr Andrew Johnston, commanding officer of ETPS, said, “We are committed to delivering exceptional flight test training that brings together expertise, innovation, and international collaboration. We look forward to welcoming the initial test pilots and flight test engineers from the Republic of Korea Air Force.”
ETPS has trained more than 1,500 students from 32 countries since its founding in 1943. Notable alumni include British astronaut Tim Peake and Sophie Adenot of the French Air and Space Force, currently serving aboard the International Space Station.
