Second upgraded Avenger takes flight at Culdrose

The second of four Avenger TMk1 aircraft undergoing extensive modification at RNAS Culdrose completed its first in-service flight in April, according to Ascent Flight Training.

All four Avengers are being modified to incorporate an Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, an electro-optical camera, and a reconfigured cabin area and mission consoles. The onboard mission computer now uses the same software as the Lockheed Martin ground-based mission simulator, enabling a seamless transition for Mission Aircrew trainees moving between the simulator and the aircraft. Ascent says the upgrades are designed to increase training capacity and have extended the service life of the Avenger by a further ten years.

Progress on a new Operational Support Base at Culdrose is also described by the company as well underway and on track to deliver a significant uplift in trainee throughput and staff from 2027. Together, the upgraded aircraft and new facility form the foundation for Ascent and 750 Naval Air Squadron’s delivery of the UK Military Flying Training System’s Future ISTAR Rear Crew Training System, known as FIRCTS, a £300 million contract.

750 NAS is the Royal Navy’s airborne observer and mission aircrew training squadron, based at Culdrose in Cornwall. The Avenger, a variant of the King Air platform, has been used for maritime patrol and observer training for a number of years.