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KBR is taking to the skies as the result of a significant new partnership with the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MOD).

KBR's Joint Venture with Elbit Systems - Affinity Flying Training Services - has been awarded a major contract as part of the modernization of the MOD's flying training services.The Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) program, of which Affinity is a part, will optimize the flow of flying training, and reduce the costs of aircrew training. Under the contract, Affinity will provide modern and efficient aircraft to the training program and will procure, operate and maintain the aircraft and aircraft related infrastructure through to 2033. The project will be overseen by KBR's Government Services EMEA team in the Leatherhead office. Grob G 120TP 'Prefect' will be used for elementary flying training.

Andrew Pringle, President of KBR Government Services explained that this project may seem like new territory for the company, but that in fact KBR's history and expertise are perfectly suited for the job.KBR, a long term partner of the UK's Ministry of Defense, is probably best known for its in-theatre support to the MOD's deployed operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. However, KBR's pedigree in complex, large-scale program management provides expertise directly relevant to the UK defense environment," Pringle said.

"We are thrilled to have been awarded this project and look forward to working on this long term contract with MOD. KBR has brought to this arrangement a unique combination of international program management, UK based service infrastructure to the MOD, and an international technology partner (Elbit Systems)," he continued. Beechcraft 'Texan' T-6C will be used for basic flying trainingUnder this contract, thirty-eight modern, glass cockpit aircraft will be delivered in a phased approach over the next three years including 23 Grob G 120TP 'Prefects', 10 Beechcraft 'Texan' T-6Cs and 5 Embraer 'Phenom' 100 jets. All three aircraft types feature digital cockpits, exposing students at an early stage to the technologies they will rely on when they reach the fully operational level. The training aircraft were specifically selected to meet the needs of the UK's armed forces and to best prepare recruits to seamlessly transfer their knowledge to the frontlines.The 'Prefect' will be used for elementary flying training, the 'Texan' for basic flying training, and the 'Phenom' for multi-engine pilot training. Affinity will be responsible for the operations and maintenance of these fleets for the next 18 years.

The fleets will be based at RAF Valley, RAF Barkston Heath and RAF Cranwell.Head of KBR Government Services EMEA, Andrew Barrie, said, "Affinity will deliver a step-change in capability, delivering modern digital aircraft which will enhance the training experience of the modern military pilot."Affinity will help the MOD's innovative UKMFTS program deliver aircrew training for the 21st century. Affinity's service will support the UKMFTS desire to download training tasks from front-line aircraft to cost effective training aircraft and provide a significant change in aircraft turn around. Affinity will also support scheduling which will optimize aircrew training hours. The Embraer 'Phenom' 100 will be used for multi-engine pilot training"This is fantastic news for the future of our military aircrew, providing them with a modern training system which will equip them to deliver on the front line," said UK Minister of State for Defence Procurement Philip Dunne.KBR President and CEO, Stuart Bradie explained the importance of the contract to KBR and described how the project supports KBR's business strategy. "We are excited to be a part of this significant project and to continue to grow and maintain a substantial presence in the United Kingdom," said Bradie. "This win is indicative of KBR's strategic commitment to focus on long-term services contracts with annuity streams in its Government Services segment particularly for the UK Government."