Ascent welcomes the publication of the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) in June 2026, including the commitment to fully recapitalise the Jet Training System (JTS) to deliver both sovereign and international training, with “new jets for a modernised fast-jet training system”.
This important step reinforces the direction set out in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review. In particular, the focus on optimising capacity, maximising the use of industry partners, and a NATO first policy, enabling the training of international students, aligns strongly with the evolution of the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS).
Ascent stands ready to work in partnership with the MOD to design and deliver the JTS, ensuring future pilots are equipped with the skills required to operate the most advanced combat aircraft, “inspiring young generations for decades to come”, while sustaining high-value UK jobs and strengthening sovereign training capability for the long term.
