Redjec was on extended compassionate leave after the death of his wife so LPG has already been carrying out his duties for him. There is no word yet as to who will take over Redjec's roles permanently. No one in the senior DDS leadership was available for comment.
- The HCSAF is currently struggling with having to recapitalise much of its training fleet at the same time as the T-75 basic trainer and T-1 jet trainer both reach the end of their lives. The T-76 is currently in series production to replace the 75 and new build T-1Ms are under construction to replace the oldest jet trainers. However the T-1 fleet is aging fast and the HCSAF can't afford to produce new trainers fast enough. Instead the HCSAF have unveiled a plan to rebuild life-expired T-1s as the T-1MR. Under this programme the old planes are rebuilt and zero-houred and have the same updated avionic fit as a new M. The engine is reconditioned though not replaced as the legacy T-1 has a different internal layout to the M and can't use the new engine. The MR will also retain the original aerodynamics and will not be compatible with current HCSAF weapons for weapon training (though the M fleet is sufficient for that role). Rebuilding an old aircraft to MR is said to cost 57% as much as a new M, the first MR is expected later this year.
- In further HCSAF training news it has been announced that refurbished former transport C-485s will be used for the new multi-engine trainer. 10 aircraft will be refurbished and fitted for the new role from next year as the T-80 Vulture. The planes will retain full transport carrying capabilities so will be available for that role too in emergencies.
