Growing Adoption of Fourth Generation Aircraft to Trigger Development of Advanced Training Solutions
(Source: Frost & Sullivan; issued Aug. 25, 2004)
LONDON --- The emergence of fourth and fifth generation fighter aircraft has emphasised the importance of developing training aircraft with increased capabilities. The military training market is a highly vibrant one and participants are challenged to keep pace with changing requirements.
Recent analysis from Frost & Sullivan estimates the aggregated global market for basic and advanced/fighter lead-in trainer aircraft at US$42.0 billion during the 2004 to 2025 timeframe.
"Though fourth generation aircraft are extremely easy to fly, operating them at their full potential is likely to prove difficult," says Shai Shammai, Analyst Consultant with Frost & Sullivan's aerospace and defence practice. "In a bid to 'sweat their assets' more effectively, air forces are trying to increase the pilot training per student."
The growing importance of net-centric warfare is also expected to positively influence the industry and necessitate the introduction of newer syllabi and screening procedures. Moreover, it is likely to open up new market for upgrades as demand for specially designed net-centric-enabled trainer aircraft soars.
Overall, an ageing fleet of training aircraft is also likely to boost demand for newer aircraft suitable for current and future training needs. This will also have an affect on the market for upgrades. Frost & Sullivan estimates the aggregated global market for basic and advanced/fighter lead-in trainer aircraft upgrades at US$5.0 billion, during the 2004 to 2025 timeframe.
Changing capability requirements and reduced government defence budgets have also led to the collaboration between the air forces of various countries. As air forces around the world continue to seek alternatives to renew their pilot training systems in a cost-effective manner, the centralisation of several nations' training systems is likely to prove popular.
"However, even while most air forces are beginning to perceive training as a holistic process, and acknowledge that their pilots are likely to benefit from interaction, in-house training has its advantages," notes Mr. Shammai. "In spite of the extra expenses involved, in-house training allows a country to retain a sustainable competitive edge, and thus establish air dominance."
These military flight training schools are also likely to motivate the uptake of ever more effective synthetic training. The potential savings in aircraft acquisition, fuel use, ammunition and man-hours are immense, and as training solution costs continue to rise, simulated training is expected to gain popularity.
Simulated environments cannot, however, replace live training, and striking the right balance is crucial. The ideal situation would be to supplement live training with simulators. With the air forces' conservative attitude and resistance to change, industry will need to play a major role in delivering convincing solutions.
The advanced/fighter lead-in trainer aircraft market is going to be a highly competitive market. The list of competitors currently includes Aermacchi's M-346, BAE Systems' Hawk, Boeing/Aero Vodochody's L-159, EADS' Mako, Yakovlev's Yak-130, KAI/Lockheed Martin's T-50, and ATG's Javelin.
Frost & Sullivan, an international consultancy firm, has been supporting clients' growth for over four decades. Our market expertise covers a broad spectrum of industries, while our portfolio of advisory competencies includes strategic consultancy, market intelligence and management training. Our mission is to work with our clients' management teams to deliver market insights and to create value and drive growth through innovative approaches. Frost & Sullivan's network of more than 500 consultants, industry experts, corporate trainers and support staff spans the globe with 19 offices worldwide.
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PS : Ricardo, diz-se avião de treino ou avião de treinamento?
