Recently introduced into RAF servivce, the Grob Tutor T1 will eventually replaced the Royal Air Force's ageing fleet of Bulldog primary training aircraft. Ninety of the new aircraft are to be supplied for use by University Air Squadrons and Air Experience Flights at 14 locations around the country. But unusually, the aircraft will not be owned and maintained by the RAF, but carry civilian registrations and serviced under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI). Bombardier, the contractor, will own and maintain the Tutor IIs, and at some sites also provide such essential flying support services as air traffic control and fire cover, saving the MoD an estimated £30 Million over the life of the 10 year contract.

Powerplant: One Lycoming 360-A1B6 of 200hp.

Span: 32ft 8in (10.00m)

Length: 24ft 9in (7.59m)

Max Speed: 150mph (240km/h) at sea level

Accommodation: Two, side by side.

Recognition: Single-engined low-wing monoplane. Fixed tricycle undercarriage with small fairing covering the wheels. Short nose. Large glazed area cabin with two windows each side. Tapered wings with square tips. Large fin and rudder with oblong tailplane with square tips set at base of fin.