Military upgrade plans for air-to-air test and evaluation

Keywords: QinetiQ, Weapons, Aircraft

QinetiQ's Hebrides Range is joining forces with Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) in preparation for air-to-air use of the newly upgraded range facilities. The move will add customer value and augment the facilities provided by the QinetiQ range as it positions itself as a world centre of excellence for precision trials of air-to-air and surface-to- air weapons.

Eurofighter will be the range's first post- upgrade customer when it carries out end-to- end firing trials for the AIM 120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. This follows several work-up trials that started last May which saw BAE Systems' trials aircraft incrementally test the equipment installed by QinetiQ,and its sub-contractors, as part of the Hebrides Range Equipment Integration Programme (REIP).

Through its airports at Benbecula and Stornoway, HIAL can provide QinetiQ air customers with either a nearby diversion or forward operating base at locations which puts them only a few minutes flying time from the heart of the trials airspace. The facilities available at both airports, especially at Stornoway,where a new airport terminal will be commissioned by the end of the year, will complement QinetiQ trials and evaluation capability, proving range customers with a value enhanced package.