In Part 3 of our LIFT series, new RCAF pilot Eli shares his path from RMC to flying the T-346 Master in Italy’s International Flight Training School.

He talks about early training on the Grob and Harvard II, a unique posting to CFS Alert, and the challenge of fast-jet training in Sardinia. From dogfighting, radar intercepts, and close air support to the physical and mental demands of becoming a fighter pilot, Eli gives us a rare student’s perspective on preparing for the CF-18 Hornet.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to earn your wings and fly fighters for Canada, this is the episode for you.