Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

File on 4

Documentaries

Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Factual: Politics

Award-winning current affairs documentary series

Award-winning current affairs documentary series investigating major issues at home and abroad

BBC Radio 4 FM

File on 4: Winging It?

Winging It?

BBC Radio 4 - File on 4, Winging It?

An investigation into delays in the training of military pilots. Why is there a backlog?

The military flying training system struggling to get off the ground. Why are pilots unable to start training? File on 4 investigates whether subcontracting issues are to blame.

The UK's Military Flying Training System trains pilots on aircraft from fighter planes to navy helicopters. It takes years for trainees to get their wings. But delays in the system, mean many pilots and crew are 'on hold', waiting months, often years to take to the skies. 

File on 4 investigates the reasons for the hold ups. What's the impact of these delays on the public purse and on our military capability?

The government's promising a beefed up armed forces, including two new Typhoon squadrons and F35 jets. Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson says the UK needs to be ready to use 'hard power' or risk being seen as little more than a paper tiger.  But with the MoD's flying training still not at full throttle, will a lack of pilots undermine our military capability?

Reporter: Jane Deith
Producer: Mick Tucker
Editor: Gail Champion

Photo Credit: Christopher Furlong\Getty

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

File on 4

Winging It?

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4