UK MoD reveals secret helicopter training for Afghan pilots
The UK Ministry of Defence has lifted the veil on a previously secretive helicopter training service being provided to future Afghan national security force pilots.
Details of the Project Curium activity were revealed at the MoD's Boscombe Down facility in Wiltshire on 3 March, along with information on two Mil Mi-17 transports flown from the base since May 2009.
The first of 18 new Afghan pilots began their instructionin the UK in February 2008 with English language tuition, before moving on to fly the Slillgsby Aviation Firefly, Eurocopter Gazelle and finally 45h on the Mi-17. Nine flight engineers will also havebeen trainedby the course's conclusion on 31 March.
"Our first graduates are already flying Mi-17s in Afghanistan," says Wg Cdr Al Smith, officer commanding the UK Joint Helicopter Command's (JHC) Special Duties Squadron. This allocated 12 personnel to deliver the training programme, alongside more than 25 Qinetiq staff.
The MoD describes the new crews as "a well-respected,competentand motivated cadre of professionals". After completing tactical training in Afghanistan and flying operationally,several of the graduates are expected to be selected to instruct other new recruits.
Acquired from surplus Bulgarian air force stocks by Qinetiqusing JHC funds, the Mi-17s were overhauled by Lithuanian maintenance and repair specialist.
Helisota, which also delivered engineering support during the Curium effort. Built in 1985, the aircraft will be gifted to the Afghan government and transported to the country shortly after its last pilots have completed their training, the MoD confirms.