The Ministry of Defence has signalled its intent to launch a major procurement programme, Project TELUM, aimed at delivering light powered training aircraft, qualified flying instructors, and support services to underpin military flying training and air experience schemes across the UK, according to a pipeline notice published on 5 August 2025.
The project is valued at up to £403.2 million including VAT and will run from 2030 to 2040, with a possible five-year extension. It is intended to support a wide range of tasks, from Air Experience Flying for MOD-sponsored cadets to Flying Grading and Streaming for the Royal Navy and Army.
According to the notice, Project TELUM will provide a “ground and flying training capability… using a suitably capable light flying training aircraft supported by robust core services.” These services will include engineering and other essential support functions at permanent sites across the UK.
The capability is designed to support University Air Squadrons, attract and inspire future RAF personnel, and provide critical non-established flying tasks for defence.
The MoD plans to formally publish a tender in October 2026. The procurement will be conducted via a direct award process under the terms of the Procurement Act 2023. The Ministry has indicated that the project is particularly suitable for participation by small and medium-sized enterprises.
Replacing the Tutor T1
Project TELUM will succeed the Grob 115E Tutor T Mk1, a versatile and long-serving training aircraft used across all three UK armed services. The Tutor has been central to Elementary Flying Training, pilot grading, and air experience since its introduction.
Used by 15 University Air Squadrons and 13 Air Experience Flights across the UK, the Tutor has introduced thousands of cadets and students to military flying. It is powered by a Textron Lycoming AE-360-B piston engine delivering 180 horsepower, and is capable of a maximum speed of 185 knots with a service ceiling of 10,000 feet.
While well-suited to training and grading missions, the Tutor fleet is approaching the end of its service life, and Project TELUM is intended to ensure continuity and modernisation of this critical entry point into military aviation.
When you consider the UAS pays students to learn to fly, you do wonder why the RAF still has problems recruiting.
Maybe lack of positions/aircraft/faith in a long career ?
The article says that “Tutor has introduced thousands of cadets and students to military flying” yet how many Pilots and aircraft have we actually got ? Hawk numbers have been decimated too.
“On a wing and a Prayer”.