Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany – 24 July 2025

Grob Aircraft SE has successfully completed the first production test flight of the CT-102B Astra II (Grob G 120TP), marking a major milestone in the delivery of aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) under the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

The 30-minute flight took place at the company’s manufacturing facility in Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany, and included functional testing of the engine, flight controls, and systems—standard elements of Grob Aircraft’s delivery process. The aircraft performed as expected, confirming its readiness for further testing and delivery preparations.

Powered by a Rolls-Royce M250-B17F turbine engine generating up to 456 shaft horsepower, and with an operating weight of approximately 1,400 kg, the CT-102B offers responsive handling and aerobatic performance tailored for modern pilot training needs.

“The CT-102B is a very impressive aircraft to operate, and its capabilities greatly exceed the current piston-powered CT-102As that are in service in Canada,” said Michel “Savvy” Savard, Chief Pilot at SkyAlyne.
“The CT-102B will be an impressive upgrade that introduces new capabilities into the Basic Flying Training element of the new Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.”

The first two CT-102B aircraft are scheduled to arrive in Canada in September 2025. Once delivered, they will be operated by SkyAlyne at 15 Wing Moose Jaw in partnership with the RCAF, supporting the phased implementation of Canada’s comprehensive new training system.

“The excitement is building to have these aircraft on Canadian soil. The whole team is eager for their delivery to the RCAF,” added Lyle Fair, Head of Aircraft Acquisition at SkyAlyne.

The CT-102Bs are Department of National Defence (DND)-registered aircraft and form a key part of a complete renewal of the RCAF’s ab-initio training ecosystem. The broader FAcT program includes new aircraft, advanced simulators, updated courseware, infrastructure, and modern IT systems.

About Grob Aircraft SE

Grob Aircraft SE is a global leader in composite aircraft design and manufacturing. Based in Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany, the company is known for innovation, precision engineering, and exceptional quality. Its product portfolio includes advanced training aircraft and special mission platforms trusted by military and civilian operators worldwide.

Grob Aircraft SE brings together decades of expertise with a forward-looking approach, delivering reliable, sustainable, and future-ready aviation solutions.