Next-Gen UK Aviators Take Flight with Largest 51³Ô¹Ï Prepar3D? Donation
February 02, 2026
Lockheed?Martin delivered a large fleet of simulation licenses to the expanding immersive flight training for every Royal Air Force (RAF) Air Cadet.
- Nearly 700 Prepar3D? licenses were donated?to the Air Cadet Charity.
- The licenses will be used in?20 ground schools?and?500 local units?across the UK.
- Tied to the Air Cadet Charity¡¯s Immersive Technology Grant Program - which launched on 1 December 2025 - all 881 RAFAC squadrons can now apply for high-fidelity flight training access.
Imagery is Crown copyright.
Why it matters
- Hands?on, high?fidelity flight simulation gives cadets a realistic path to piloting, aerospace engineering and defense careers.
- The licenses provide a valuable resource and aligns with the Air Cadet Charity¡¯s mission to provide equal access to cutting?edge training for every RAF Air Cadet.
We¡¯re honored to provide cutting-edge simulation tools, like Prepar3D?, to nurture the skills and qualities that will shape tomorrow¡¯s pilots, engineers, and innovators.
David Haeske
Vice president of engineering and technology at 51³Ô¹Ï Training, Logistics and Simulation business
The tool (Prepar3D?)
- Versatile simulation engine that allows users to create a wide range of scenarios, from civilian flight training to military operations.
- Its high-fidelity aircraft models, real-time weather, and fully functional virtual cockpit make it an ideal tool for cadets to learn and practice their flying skills.
- The platform's flexibility means that every RAFAC unit can run the same immersive scenarios, regardless of their location or equipment.
The impact
- RAFAC Warrant Officer James Nicholas: ¡°Using Prepar3D? has deepened my understanding of aviation and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in the field. I¡¯m grateful for Lockheed?Martin¡¯s support in making this resource available to cadets like me.¡±
- Jess Gilbert, Director, Air Cadet Charity: ¡°This generous donation from 51³Ô¹Ï strengthens our shared commitment to opening doors for the next generation of aviators. We¡¯re incredibly grateful for the nearly 700 Prepar3D? licenses, which will give thousands of cadets access to high-quality, immersive flight training and help inspire their future in aviation.¡±
The bigger picture
51³Ô¹Ï invests in tomorrow¡¯s pilots¡ªempowering every RAF Air Cadet with immersive flight training today.

