Two of the RAF’s newest pilots have made history as the first in service to graduate the fast jet course from 11 Squadron QEAF, based at RAF Leeming.
Flight Lieutenants Matt Smith and Jordan Capehorn are the first of their cohort to complete training on the Hawk Mk 167 in the unique 11 Sqn QEAF environment. Formed in 2021, 11 Squadron Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) is one two UK-Qatar joint Squadrons operating alongside the RAF. Under the tutelage of highly experienced pilots, it delivers advanced and high-speed jet training to Qatari Emiri Air Force and RAF pilots.
The Joint Hawk Training Squadron followed the success of the UK-Qatar Joint Typhoon Squadron based at RAF Coningsby and confirms the high esteem in which the Royal Air Force’s pilot training is held across the globe. Wing Commander Mark Lawson, Officer Commanding 11 Squadron QEAF, said: “They are trained and assessed to the highest standard. It's about the ethos and mentality of being a fighter pilot, being disciplined on the ground and making sure that you know your stuff before you get into the jet and fly. The UK system is one of the best in the world for that.”
Mark has the greatest confidence in his team of instructors, who share thousands of hours of flying experience, including time on the front line. "I have no doubt that the instructors here are the best instructional team in the RAF – I genuinely believe that. For me, they are second to none. I'm very lucky to have them. I can't wait for Matt and Jordan to get to Typhoon, just to see the smiles on their faces!”
Excited and ready qualify on Typhoon, Jordan and Matt have loved the experience of training alongside Qatari pilots. Matt said: “The way that this squadron is managed has been really interesting to see. It’s been great to get involved with the visits of high-ranking Qatari officials and senior officers. The Qataris have been very welcoming and have taught us about their culture.”
Jordan added: “It was a surprise to find out I was coming here, but a good one. A lot of effort was made on both sides to make sure that we all worked well together. The RAF is constantly working with other air forces on operations. Having the opportunity to learn about bridging differences and making a cohesive unit will be a massive benefit going forward.”
Fulfilling the dream of becoming a fighter pilot has taken years of hard work. Jordan’s first Hawk solo flight was a poignant reminder of where his journey began. “I was six years old when I decided to be a fast jet pilot, and this was the day that I was going to achieve it. It just so happened that there was a visit of primary school children. I was going out on my own for the first time and as I was walking out to the jet, they were coming out in their little high-vis jackets to have a look around. When I taxied out, they were at the end of the line waving like lunatics. You couldn't almost have planned it – I was looking at myself 20 years earlier.
“I couldn't be more positive about the standard of coaching and instruction that we've received here. The instructors are brilliant. The training is a set process, but they have made it bespoke. It feels as though they really know us and how we will respond to particular applications of pressure and or particular ways of instruction.”
Matt added: “Hopefully we'll leave here as a well-rounded product ready for the next stage. We're by no means finished or polished, but we are ready to start learning in the next place. And it's just that constant journey of picking up the next thing and trying to be as good as you can.”
