Former UK Military Pilots Assisting Chinese with Air Combat Training
October 19th, 2022Via: The War Zone:
Dozens of British former frontline military pilots have been hired by China to provide training and intelligence to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), according to reports corroborated by the U.K. Ministry of Defense (MOD). The situation once again highlights the efforts China is willing to go to expand its military know-how and also sheds light on the sometimes-murky world of private defense contractors.
A story published by The Times of London states that “at least 30” pilots who previously served with the U.K. Armed Forces have been recruited by China “to help Beijing develop its tactics and technological expertise.” The pilots involved are said to be mainly former fast-jet aircrew but also include helicopter pilots. All apparently began working for China from the end of 2019 onward and are said to be earning around £240,000 (roughly $270,000) a year.
