Leonardo Empowers RAF Veterans in Tempest Fighter Jet Development Through LEAP Programme

In a seamless blend of military precision and cutting-edge innovation, former Royal Air Force (RAF) engineer Craig has embarked on a second career at Leonardo, a company at the forefront of defense technology. After 22 years of service in the RAF, Craig now lends his expertise to the Tempest project, an ambitious next-generation fighter jet initiative under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a trilateral collaboration between the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. His transition is emblematic of a broader effort by Leonardo to channel the skills of military veterans into the high-tech demands of systems engineering, ensuring that their invaluable experience continues to serve national security interests.

Engineering the Future: Veterans Take Flight in High-Tech Defense Roles

The Tempest, slated for delivery by 2035, is not just another fighter jet—it represents a leap forward in combat aviation, promising advanced stealth capabilities, artificial intelligence integration, and unparalleled situational awareness. At the heart of this endeavor is Team Tempest, a consortium that includes BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, MBDA, and the UK Ministry of Defence. Together, they aim to redefine air combat for the 21st century. For Craig, joining Leonardo as a systems engineer means applying his deep understanding of military operations to the intricate design and development of this groundbreaking aircraft.

Leonardo, already renowned for providing state-of-the-art avionics for RAF Typhoons, has positioned itself as a leader in fostering talent from the armed forces. Central to this effort is The LEAP Programme, a forward-thinking initiative designed to transition veterans into systems engineering roles. Developed in collaboration with Matchtech, Innexia, and the School of Systems Engineering, LEAP is more than a recruitment drive—it’s a carefully crafted pathway that equips veterans with the technical skills needed to excel in civilian engineering roles. By recognizing the overlap between military expertise and engineering demands, Leonardo has created a bridge that benefits both the individual and the industry.

Since its inception, the LEAP Programme has already integrated 22 veterans into Leonardo's workforce, with plans to expand that number to 40 by the summer of 2025. These new systems engineers are not only contributing to projects like the Tempest but are also reinforcing the company’s commitment to national security. For Craig, the transition has been seamless. "The skills I developed in the RAF—problem-solving, adaptability, and an eye for detail—are directly applicable to the work I do now," he shared in a recent statement. His journey underscores the value of initiatives like LEAP, which recognize the untapped potential of military veterans.

Beyond its recruitment efforts, Leonardo has cultivated a workplace culture that supports veterans through its Armed Forces Network. This internal community provides mentorship, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging, ensuring that the transition from military to civilian life is as smooth as possible. The network also reinforces Leonardo’s broader mission: to leverage the unique skills of veterans in advancing defense technologies that safeguard national and international security.

The collaboration between Leonardo and its Team Tempest partners is also a testament to the interconnected nature of modern defense industries. By pooling resources and expertise, these organizations are not only accelerating the development of the Tempest but are also setting a new standard for international cooperation. The inclusion of Italy and Japan in GCAP highlights the growing importance of multinational partnerships in addressing shared security challenges. For veterans like Craig, this global perspective adds another layer of complexity and significance to their work, as they contribute to technologies that will shape the future of air combat.

What sets initiatives like LEAP apart is their recognition of the human element in high-tech innovation. While advanced systems and cutting-edge algorithms often dominate headlines, it is the people behind these technologies—engineers, designers, and veterans—who bring them to life. By investing in veterans, Leonardo is not only filling a critical skills gap but is also honoring the service and sacrifice of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.

As the Tempest project progresses, it will undoubtedly face challenges, from technological hurdles to geopolitical complexities. However, the integration of experienced veterans into its development team offers a significant advantage. Their firsthand knowledge of military operations provides invaluable insights into the practical applications of new technologies, ensuring that the Tempest is not only innovative but also operationally effective.

In a broader sense, Leonardo’s approach reflects a growing recognition across industries of the value of military experience. Veterans bring a unique blend of discipline, leadership, and technical expertise that is often difficult to replicate in traditional civilian roles. By creating programs like LEAP, companies can tap into this reservoir of talent, fostering innovation while also supporting those who have served.

As Craig and his fellow LEAP graduates continue to contribute to projects like the Tempest, their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between military service and technological advancement. In a world where security threats are increasingly complex and interconnected, the ability to draw on the expertise of veterans is not just an advantage—it is a necessity. For Leonardo, this is more than a business strategy; it is a commitment to building a safer, more secure future, one veteran at a time.