At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our elite team flying the L-159 and redefine air combat training.
- Company: Draken, a mission-driven company committed to your growth and success.
- Benefits: Relocation support, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for all.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in air combat training while enjoying scenic adventures.
- Qualifications: Military fast-jet experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Draken offer exciting careers that matter. We believe that mission success does not start with the mission itself. It begins with our people. That’s why we invest in you—your skills, your growth, and your future. At Draken, we are redefining air combat training—and we’re looking for exceptional fast-jet pilots to join our elite Red Air Aggressor team flying the formidable Aero L-159 ‘Honey Badger’. This is more than a job. It’s a career that matters.
Your Next Chapter Starts at Teesside
Based at Teesside International Airport, you’ll operate in one of the UK’s most scenic regions, with the North Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Dales just moments away—perfect for those who value adventure both in and out of the cockpit. Relocation support is available, and our Draken Managed Path programme helps pilots navigate the UK CAA licensing process with ease.
What We’re Looking For
- Experienced fast-jet pilots with a strong military background and a passion for excellence.
- Proven airborne leadership and operational decision-making.
- A sharp focus on safety, compliance, and mission delivery.
- Adaptability in dynamic environments.
- Clear, confident communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
- Military fast-jet experience (ideally within last 6 years).
- NATO Secret clearance, or ability to obtain this.
- Valid UK CPL(A) or ATPL(A) (or ICAO-compliant equivalent).
- UK CAA Class 1 medical (or ICAO-compliant equivalent).
- AUPRT course completed.
Desirable
- 1000+ hours on fast jets.
- Qualified Weapons Instructor or Flying Instructor.
- Experience with radar-equipped, single-seat platforms.
- MCC course.
Operational Knowledge
- Deep understanding of customer mission requirements.
- Experience in military/government aviation.
- Civil aviation experience – Desirable.
- Competence with Microsoft Office tools – Desirable.
Why Draken?
- Fly cutting-edge platforms in a high-impact role.
- Be part of a mission-driven team shaping the future of air combat training.
- Enjoy a supportive, professional environment with career development opportunities.
Our employee values: Draken is committed to eliminating unlawful and unfair discrimination and we celebrate the differences that a diverse workforce brings. A range of perspective and talent supports our values and drives our success, with a mix of voices generating better discussions, business decisions and outcomes for all. To us, diversity means bringing your own perspective to the conversation; inclusion means having a voice - and equality means that your voice is heard. At all our sites internationally, every member of the Draken team is accountable to ensure that we are all treated fairly and with respect. Intolerance has no place in our Company. We condemn it outright. Instead, we strive to create a culture where each person who joins our team feels they have the opportunity to succeed, to grow, and to work within an environment where they can be themselves.
We are also an Armed Forces friendly organisation, and as part of our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, welcome applications from veterans and services spouses and partners who meet the criteria in our job specifications. In line with our Disability Confident Commitments, we provide reasonable adjustments to facilitate our interview process, please liaise with us if any reasonable adjustments are required.
L-159 Captain employer: Draken Europe
Draken Europe is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bournemouth where innovation meets dedication in the defence sector. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide comprehensive benefits and competitive salaries, ensuring our team members are well-supported in their roles. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values your expertise and fosters meaningful contributions to cutting-edge aerospace and electronic warfare projects.
