USAAF modernizes training fleet with first T-7A Red Hawk

Aviation Defense News September 2023
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The United States Air Force announced on September 21, 2023, that it had received the first T-7A Red Hawk aircraft, developed by Boeing Defense, Space & Security in partnership with the Saab group. This aircraft is intended to replace the aging Northrop T-38 Talon as the primary trainer of the United States Air Force (USAF).

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USAF modernizes training fleet with first T 7A Red Hawk 925   The United States Air Force announced on September 21, 2023, that it had received the first T-7A Red Hawk aircraft, developed by Boeing Defense, Space & Security in partnership with the Saab group. (Picture source: Saab)

The T-7 Red Hawk made its maiden flight on December 20, 2016. On September 27, 2018, it won a contract from the USAF to supply at least 351 training aircraft. The aircraft was officially named Red Hawk on September 16, 2019. As of September 2023, two Boeing-owned prototypes have completed approximately 500 test flights.

The first of five engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD) T-7A Red Hawks intended for the USAF made its maiden flight on June 28, 2023, and was accepted into the USAF on September 14, 2023. These aircraft will undergo flight tests alongside the two prototypes.

The Saab Group is responsible for the development and production of the fuselage section. Initially, the units are produced in Linköping, Sweden, but the production of Saab's components is expected to move to a new U.S. site in West Lafayette, Indiana, by 2020. The final assembly takes place at the facility of Boeing in St. Louis, Missouri.

The T-7A is equipped with a glass cockpit, stepped seating, and integrated training features. It also has a modular design that aims to simplify maintenance. The aircraft is powered by a General Electric F404 engine.

The T-7 Red Hawk is designed to simulate the flight experience of fifth-generation fighters such as the F-22 and F-35. It features a glass cockpit, stepped seating, and built-in training features. The aircraft is expected to be a key part of the USAF's efforts to modernize its pilot training program.

The USAF plans to acquire a total of 351 T-7A Red Hawks to replace its existing fleet of 504 T-38 Talon trainer aircraft. The next two T-7As are expected to be delivered by the end of 2023. The aircraft will undergo a series of tests to evaluate its performance and handling characteristics.