Aeralis launch jet naming competition at RAF Air Cadets National Air and Space Camp at RAF Syerston near Newark, Nottinghamshire

Cadets have been given an exclusive opportunity to name a new jet seen as the future of aviation.

UK-based Aeralis launched a competition to name its first jet at the National Air and Space Camp at RAF Syerston this week, which saw RAF Air Cadets from Newark and across the country gather for a week of activities and learning.

The jet is planned to enter the market from 2029 onwards and once completed will be the first military aircraft designed and built in the UK since 1974, bringing the next generation of light military aircraft to the country’s skies.

Air cadets across the UK can submit their suggested name for the aircraft and the winner will receive an award and attend an unveiling ceremony at the Aeralis facility in Bristol later this year as well as regular visits throughout the development process.

Aeralis chief executive and founder, Tristan Crawford, met with cadets to talk about the project and how they could get involved.

He said: “Cadets are already air minded with an interest in aviation, so they are a natural audience for us to engage with and build for the future.

“When you think about when this aircraft will be in service, everyone here in the cadets will be of the age where they will possibly be front line air crew, engineers, logistics or in industry using this for real.

“What we want is for the cadets to get involved with the programme now so that their ideas are baked into the design and when it goes into service, some of those excellent ideas are featured.

“That’s the most important thing, that the cadets feel as if they are joining us on a journey by getting involved.”

Tristan explained the main concept behind the aircraft, which will be designed as a first-of-a-kind modular light jet.

“There is a core fuselage which will stay the same but the rest of the aircraft is modular and can be adapted to meet different needs,” he said.

“The wings, the engine, the avionics are all flexible. We could have a drone version, a refuel tanker, a manned fighter all from the same body.

“Militaries can be really challenged on budget and if you take 60% costs out of this it means that you can effectively do double of what you can do today.

“It’s about versatility, adaptability and affordability for the future.”

To enter, cadets can go to Aeralis.com/mission001 to find further details on the competition.

The chosen name should reflect the military versatility of the aircraft and will be adopted throughout the remainder of design and engineering development process, and then, proudly worn for its maiden flight.

Aeralis also offer opportunities to young people for internships and work experience through their academy.