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Japanese pilots will be jointly trained by the Italian Air Force and global aerospace giant Leonardo under a new partnership.
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The Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, General Alberto Rosso, and the Chief of Staff of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), General Shunji Izutsu, have signed a technical collaboration agreement.
As part of the arrangement, Japanese military pilots will participate in advanced training courses (Phase IV) offered at the International Flight Training School (IFTS) – a joint project between the Italian Air Force and Leonardo.
The deal includes an industrial partnership between Leonardo and aviation training company CAE for the maintenance and support of the aircraft fleet and simulators.
The agreement follows a series of engagements that culminated in a visit to the 61st Wing at Lecce-Galatina Air Force Base on September 2020, during which a JASDF delegation observed the Integrated Training System developed by Leonardo, modelled on the T-346A aircraft.
A gradual increase in JASDF student pilots would be welcomed into the program over the coming years, with Japanese instructors also potentially joining the school to support the exchange of experiences and the optimisation and standardisation of procedures.
Japan is the third country to join the IFTS, following Qatar and Germany’s membership.
“I am proud and honoured to be able to sign this agreement, which will outline for both countries the track for growing together, for sharing professional skills, allowing our staff to work in close contact, synergy and friendship,” the Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, General Alberto Rosso said.
“This is another important step in the collaboration between our Air Forces: we are already cooperating with great success in many areas, for example, having common platforms such as the F-35 aircraft and the KC-767 tanker.
“The distance that separates us today is geographical only, but our countries are close, joined in harmony on many themes and historically connected.”
Chief of Staff of the JASDF, General Shunji Izutsu noted the benefits of the new technical arrangement.
“I believe that this is a significant step to deepen defence cooperation and exchanges between the Koku-Jieitai (Japan Air Self-Defense Force) and Italian Air Force,” he said.
“This is one of your great achievements. Let me extend my heartfelt respect to your achievements and gratitude to your contribution to Japan-Italy relationship.
“I really wish your continuous success and prosperity, and progress for the Italian Air Force.”
[Related: Leonardo Australia joins maritime security co-operative]
