The US Air Force has announced a major shift in its strategy for the T-7A Red Hawk jet trainer program, though the changes may result in delays of up to a year.
According to Air Force acquisition chief Andrew Hunter, funding initially allocated for T-7A procurement this year will be redirected back toward research and development to ensure the aircraft meets all operational requirements.
Additional funds will be set aside for “incentive agreements” with the manufacturer to address unanticipated issues.
For instance, Boeing may receive incentives to enhance the aircraft’s range.
“What we’ve determined as part of our testing process is there’s actually significantly more range available, but it costs money to achieve that, and it’s not required by the contract,” Hunter explained to Breaking Defense. “So, one of the things we want to incentivize Boeing is, ‘Hey, if you can make relatively simple changes and give us that additional range, we want it.’”
As a result of these adjustments, the T-7A’s Milestone C decision is expected to be pushed back to 2026, with initial operational capability anticipated in 2027.
Reducing Future Production Risks
The T-7A Red Hawk is an advanced training system designed to deliver a multi-generational leap in capability and revolutionize pilot training.
It integrates live, virtual, and constructive elements to better prepare fighter pilots for diverse missions.
The Air Force plans to acquire 14 Red Hawks to replace its aging T-38 Talons, with the first three aircraft delivered in 2023.
However, early flight tests revealed issues, including problems with the emergency escape system, delaying the remaining deliveries by two years.
Steve Parker, Boeing’s interim CEO for its defense division, stated that the revised approach would enable the company to deliver a production-ready configuration while reducing future risks.
“This strategy accelerates the path to delivering critical capability on the timeline the Air Force needs,” he said. “We value our partnership with the US Air Force and remain committed to providing the safest, most advanced training system in the world.”
