Next-Gen UK Aviators Take Flight with Largest Lockheed Martin Prepar3D® Donation

Lockheed Martin delivered a large fleet of Prepar3D® simulation licenses to the Air Cadet Charity expanding immersive flight training for every Royal Air Force (RAF) Air Cadet.

• Nearly 700 Prepar3D® licenses were donated to the Air Cadet Charity, valued at $172,000 USD.
• 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.

"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," said David Haeske vice president of engineering and technology at Lockheed Martin Training, Logistics and Simulation business. "Lockheed Martin's support for the RAFAC is just one example of our ongoing efforts to promote education and career development in the aviation industry."

Photo courtesy of RAF Air Cadets.

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.

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 Lockheed Martin 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