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New Typhoon Project Pilot At BAE SYSTEMS

15 Jul 2005

New BAE Systems Typhoon project pilot Will Jonas was not only one of the first RAF pilots to fly the new-generation, multi-role fighter, he was also honoured in the Queens Birthday Honours List last month, for his role in development of the aircraft which will provide a cornerstone of the UKs defence capabilities for the next 30+ years.

Will Jonas MBE, brings invaluable customer experience of Typhoon to the BAE Systems flight operations team. He joins the company as the first RAF Eurofighter Typhoon squadron settles into its new home at RAF Conningsby, Lincolnshire, ahead of schedule.

One of his primary tasks will be to harness his RAF experience as Typhoons capability is progressively increased, with the introduction of precision ground attack a priority. This work will provide partner nations and export customers alike with a true multi-role, weapon systems, earlier than planned.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the RAF and was delighted to be one of the first RAF pilots to have a taste of Typhoon. It has obviously stayed with me, because now I am flying the jet for BAE Systems. Said Will.

Will Jonas joined the RAF immediately after leaving school, completing his flying training in 1991. He joined 74 Squadron flying Phantom F4 aircraft in Europe and the Falkland Islands. When 74 Squadron reformed flying Hawk, he joined as a qualified flying instructor.

Following a spell flying with the Royal Norwegian Air Force during which Will took part in the Kosovo campaign, Norways first deployment to war since World War II, Jonas enrolled with the Empire Test Pilot School, becoming a project pilot after just over a year.

About BAE SYSTEMS

BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defense and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. The Company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defense systems. BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The Company employs nearly 100,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately $25 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.

For further information, please contact:

Andy Bunce, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0) 1772 852714
andy.bunce@baesystems.com