A clash of generations: the key question in advanced jet trainers is whether new designs should now take over, thereby providing a quantum leap in angle-of-attack, specific excess power and possibly Mach number. Lower down the scale, can turbofan-powered basic trainers really compete against turboprops?

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Fixed-wing: training

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A clash of generations: the key question in advanced jet trainers is whether new designs should now take over, thereby providing a quantum leap in angle-of-attack, specific excess power and possibly Mach number. Lower down the scale, can turbofan-powered basic trainers really compete against turboprops?

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Military fixed-wing training aircraft are discussed below as four distinct categories: piston/rotary-engined primary trainers, turboprop basic trainers, turbojet/turbofan basic trainers and advanced trainers.

Primary Trainers

The purpose of the primary training or screening is to quickly identify students who will probably not complete the syllabus in a reasonable time. This is traditionally argued to require an engine of around 200 kW and more difficult handling characteristics than a civil trainer.

Such aircraft are undoubtedly suitable for screening university graduates, but it is arguable that air forces with lower entry standards should consider less demanding civil trainers, such as America's 600-kg Light Sport category. Examples include ...

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