What can the UK do to stop former pilots helping China?
While the news that ex-RAF aviators have been working for China has captured the headlines, ironically the UK still struggles to train its own pilots. (Photo: UK Crown Copyright)
While new legislations and penalties may help deter some former Royal Air Force pilots from training Chinese personnel, the UK should realise it has played a role in alienating its retirees and needs to better look after its people, experts say.
As many as 30 former RAF pilots have been recruited by China to train its air force how to fight against Western fighter jets and helicopters, recent media reports have revealed.
The retired UK personnel are being used to help understand the way in which Western planes and pilots operate, information which could be vital in the event of a conflict.
The pilots involved have experience and knowledge of Eurofighter Typhoons, Jaguars, AV-8B Harriers and Tornados but not with the F-35.
Officials claim that Beijing has persuaded the retired pilots with lucrative contracts that included £240,000 ($271,000) annual salaries.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow]()
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
![Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme]()
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
![Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans]()
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.
-
![UK Strategic Defence Review puts emphasis on autonomy, airpower and munitions]()
UK Strategic Defence Review puts emphasis on autonomy, airpower and munitions
The UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR) was launched as one of the first acts of the UK’s new Labour Government in June last year. The review has recommended a major big-picture reform of the country’s forces.
-
![Foreshadowing of UK defence review suggests it is light on programme details]()
Foreshadowing of UK defence review suggests it is light on programme details
The UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR) was designed to answer two questions: What is needed to fix UK defence and make it fit for the 2040s, and what do you get for a fixed financial profile? The SDR outlines that work still needs to be done on specifics.
