
African Pilot Magazine:
Military Pilot

Restoration of Sabre 361: Honouring Heritage Through Dedication and Craftsmanship
The restoration of Sabre 361 by Montagu Thorne and Matthew Olivier celebrates aviation heritage through meticulous craftsmanship. The project, conducted at the South African Air Force Museum, involved polishing, panel beating, and replacing corroded fasteners to restore this historic aircraft for public display.

French Air and Space Force buys 22 PC-7 MKX Aircraft for Basic Military Pilot Training
The French Air and Space Force has selected the Pilatus PC-7 MKX as its new basic military pilot training system. With 22 aircraft on order, advanced avionics, and a state-of-the-art Ground-Based Training System, this move reinforces France’s commitment to cutting-edge flight training.

Safran and GAL Partner to Ensure Fleet Readiness for UAE Mirage 2000 Aircraft
Safran Aircraft Engines and Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) have partnered to ensure fleet readiness for the UAE Mirage 2000 aircraft, providing world-class maintenance and operational support for M53 engines.
Grey Wolf Tested for US Air Force Mission
The US Air Force’s MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters have undergone Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) flights, demonstrating their capabilities in simulated emergency response scenarios. Learn how this new aircraft enhances nuclear security and replaces the UH-1N Huey.

Zambia Air Force’s Operation Sungulula Concludes as Life Returns to the Kafue River
The Zambia Air Force successfully concludes Operation Sungulula, neutralising an acid spill in the Kafue River. The aerial response effort safeguarded aquatic life, protected downstream communities, and reinforced ZAF’s disaster response capabilities.

From Disks to Digital: Trainer Updates Cut Apache Downtime
Discover how the Apache Longbow Crew Trainers' software updates have transformed from a time-consuming manual process to an efficient automated system. Learn how automation reduces downtime, enhances performance, and improves training reliability.

US Air Force Completes First Flight of L3Harris Viper Shield Electronic Warfare System
L3Harris Technologies’ Viper Shield™ electronic warfare suite has completed its first flight on a single-seat Block 70 F-16, advancing defence capabilities for international F-16 partners.

Saab Signs MOU with HAL for Laser Warning System
Saab has signed an MOU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to collaborate on the LWS-310 Laser Warning System, strengthening their long-standing partnership. The agreement includes a Maintenance Transfer of Technology, enabling HAL to manufacture the system in India while enhancing defence capabilities and electronic warfare solutions.

GE Aerospace T901 Engine Powers Black Hawk for First Time in Successful Ground Runs
GE Aerospace successfully completed initial ground runs of the T901 engine on a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, marking a major milestone in the Improved Turbine Engine Programme. This achievement validates the engine’s performance and reinforces its role in modernising the Army’s helicopter fleet.

The New Global Pilot Survey Hopes to Understand the State of Pilots
Western University and IFALPA have launched the View from the Flight Deck 2024 survey to explore the evolving role of pilots, focusing on fatigue, mental health, and the impact of automation. This research aims to advocate for better working conditions, improved safety measures, and stronger mental health support in the aviation industry.

Airbus Signs New Study Contract to Define France’s Future Maritime Patrol Aircraft
The French Defence Procurement Agency has signed a contract with Airbus Defence and Space and Thales for a risk-assessment study of the A321 MPA, a next-generation maritime patrol aircraft designed for the French Navy. This study will refine technical, economic, and industrial conditions ahead of the aircraft’s planned production launch in 2026.

Spain Orders 25 Additional Eurofighter Aircraft
Spain has ordered 25 additional Eurofighter aircraft under the Halcón II programme to replace part of its ageing F-18 fleet. This acquisition strengthens Spain’s air-power capabilities, reinforces its role in NATO, and supports its aerospace industry.
