Veterans Drive RAFs Tempest Fighter Jet Development at Leonardo Through LEAP Programme

From Tornados to Tempest: How Veterans Are Shaping the Future of Combat Aviation

After two decades of service in the Royal Air Force (RAF), Craig, a former engineer who worked on iconic aircraft such as the Tornado, VC10, and Typhoon, has embarked on a new mission. Trading in his military fatigues for a role at Leonardo, Craig now finds himself at the forefront of cutting-edge aviation technology, contributing to the development of the Tempest, the RAF's next-generation fighter jet. This ambitious project, part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) in partnership with Italy and Japan, aims to redefine the future of aerial combat by delivering a state-of-the-art fighter jet by 2035.

Craig's transition from the RAF to Leonardo is emblematic of a broader trend, one where military veterans are finding new purpose in the civilian aerospace and defense sectors. With 22 years of experience under his belt, Craig's expertise in stakeholder management and systems engineering has proven invaluable in his current role on the Tempest test development programme. His story underscores how the skills honed in military service—discipline, adaptability, and technical acumen—translate seamlessly into the high-stakes world of advanced engineering.

The Tempest programme itself is a testament to international collaboration and innovation. Spearheaded by Team Tempest, a consortium that includes Leonardo, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, MBDA, and the UK Ministry of Defence, the project is not merely about building an aircraft. It represents a vision for the future of combat aviation, one that integrates cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and next-generation propulsion systems. For Leonardo, whose expertise in avionics already supports the RAF's Typhoon fleet in Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) air bases, the Tempest is a natural evolution of its commitment to national and global security.

But beyond the technical marvels, the story of the Tempest is also a story of people—specifically, the veterans who are shaping its development. Recognizing the untapped potential of former military personnel, Leonardo has launched The LEAP Programme, an initiative designed to fast-track veterans into systems engineering roles. Developed in partnership with Matchtech, Innexia, and the School of Systems Engineering, the programme equips participants with the skills needed to design and manage the complex systems that underpin modern aerospace technology.

Since its inception, The LEAP Programme has already integrated 22 systems engineers into Leonardo's workforce, with plans to expand to 40 by the summer of 2025. For veterans like Craig, the programme offers more than just a career—it provides a pathway to apply their hard-earned expertise in a meaningful way, contributing to projects that safeguard national security while advancing technological frontiers.

What makes The LEAP Programme particularly compelling is its focus on the unique strengths that veterans bring to the table. From problem-solving under pressure to managing intricate logistical operations, these are skills that are often second nature to those who have served in the armed forces. Leonardo not only acknowledges these attributes but also fosters a sense of belonging through its Armed Forces Network, a community that supports veterans as they navigate their new roles.

Craig's journey from the RAF to Leonardo is a microcosm of a larger narrative, one that highlights the symbiotic relationship between the military and the defense industry. As geopolitical tensions continue to shape the global landscape, the need for advanced defense systems has never been more pressing. Programmes like Tempest are not just about maintaining a technological edge; they are about ensuring that nations remain prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

However, such advancements would be impossible without the human element—the engineers, designers, and visionaries who bring these concepts to life. By investing in initiatives like The LEAP Programme, Leonardo is not only addressing the industry's growing demand for skilled engineers but also honoring the contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to service.

As the Tempest takes shape, it carries with it the legacy of aircraft like the Tornado and Typhoon, as well as the collective expertise of the veterans who once maintained and flew them. For Craig and his colleagues, working on the Tempest is more than a job; it is a continuation of their commitment to protecting the skies, albeit in a different capacity.

In many ways, the Tempest symbolizes the convergence of past and future—a bridge between the traditions of military aviation and the possibilities of tomorrow. As the project moves closer to its 2035 target, it serves as a reminder that innovation is not just about technology; it is about the people who make it possible. And for veterans like Craig, it is proof that their service does not end when they leave the military—it merely evolves, finding new expression in endeavors that are as challenging as they are rewarding.