What's Happening?
BAE Systems has teamed up with Boeing and Saab to propose the T-7A Red Hawk as a replacement for the UK Royal Air Force's aging fleet of Hawk T1s and T2s. The collaboration aims to secure the RAF Advanced Jet Trainer requirement, which would establish
a T-7 final assembly line in the UK. The partnership also includes developing a bespoke ground-based training capability for the RAF, integrating live and synthetic elements. This move marks a shift for the UK industrial base, which has historically been a designer of advanced jet trainers, including the Hawk series.
Why It's Important?
The partnership between BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab is significant as it strengthens the transatlantic industrial base and offers opportunities for cooperative development. It represents a strategic shift for the UK, which is transitioning from designing its own advanced jet trainers to collaborating on international projects. This could impact the UK's combat air readiness and deliver economic benefits through job creation and technological advancements. The collaboration also highlights the growing trend of international partnerships in defense technology development.
What's Next?
If the team wins the RAF Advanced Jet Trainer requirement, BAE Systems will lead the final assembly of the T-7 in the UK. The companies will continue to explore opportunities for expanding the UK supply chain and integrating advanced training systems. Boeing is expected to deliver the first production representative test vehicle of the T-7 to Randolph AFB in Texas by the end of the year, which could influence the project's timeline and future developments.
