Air cadet flies in a Hawk fast jet

THESE amazing shots were taken by an 18-year-old air cadet during his flight in a Hawk last month.
James Tye, a cadet sergeant with 134 Bedford Air Training Corps and trainee helicopter technician with Patriot Aviation at Cranfield Airport, was awarded the flight after receiving 'Cadet of the Year' last December.

James flew with the Fleet Requirement Air Direction Unit (FRADU) based in Cornwall where the Hawks are used in mock missile attacks against Royal Navy warships.

Flying with pilot Wayne 'Tin Tin' Newbury, James said, "We were going at about 400 knots and 120 feet above the sea flying over small fishing boats on the way to the Navy ships. The Hawk turns instantly and the g-forces were incredible."

Having completed two attack runs on a group of three warships, they climbed to a higher altitude and flew in formation with another Hawk. James was then treated to a near vertical climb and a 'run in and break' back at base.

James Tye and 'Tin Tin'

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AWO Browne from HMS Seahawk said, "The experience that Sgt Tye has enjoyed here will stay with him for many years to come. A few years ago James's pilot was in the same position when he was treated to a Hawk flight for his own achievements in the Air Cadets. I hope that this kind of experience which is open to a lucky few cadets will inspire James and help him progress in his aviation career." *The Air Cadets are currently running a national recruiting campaign for adult volunteers to lead cadets and help run activities. Most large towns throughout the UK have a local squadron. Call 0845 600 661 for more information.