The Tucano T1 was an advanced trainer, preparing students for fast jets (both RAF and Royal Navy). It is a turboprop, using a jet-turbine to turn a propellor, and replaced the Jet Provost in this role.
It is Brazilian design – originally made by Embraer – but heavily modified to meet the RAF’s requirements and built by Shorts in Belfast (now Bombardier Aerospace).
It is configured to behave like a jet, with controls set up to build familiarity with the next stage of pilot training in Hawks.
The throttle, for example, controls both engine speed and the pitch of the propellor blades simultaneously.
And unlike the Jet Provost, the Tucano has a two-seat tandem cockpit, making it a good lead-in to the Hawk.
As well as being used for fast-jet pilot training, it was also used for basic training of Weapons Systems Officers – directly involved in all air operations and weapons systems of military aircraft.
Tucanos primarily flew from RAF Linton on Ouse, as part of No1 Flying Training School, and were a familiar sight and sound above York until training moved to RAF Valley in Wales in 2019.
This is a recent acquisition at the museum, having been donated by the RAF in December 2024. Shorts Tucano T1 ZF448 arrived at the Yorkshire Air Museum from RAF Shawbury. It was the Display Tucano from RAF Linton on Ouse near York, when that base was home to No. 72(R) Squadron, Basic Training, before the Squadron’s move to RAF Valley in November 2019.
