Boeing, Saab, and BAE Systems have joined forces to support the UK’s new Advanced Jet Trainer program, designed to prepare Royal Air Force pilots for modern and future combat aircraft. The effort forms part of the UK’s 2025 Strategic Defence Review, with BAE Systems leading the initiative and overseeing UK-based final assembly operations to boost local employment.
The partnership centers around the T-7A Red Hawk, a digitally engineered training aircraft combining live flying with advanced virtual and constructive training tools. This hybrid approach allows trainee pilots to rehearse complex missions, practice high-threat scenarios, and reduce long-term training costs. The companies are also evaluating options to increase UK supply chain involvement.
The T-7A, chosen by the US Air Force to replace the aging T-38 Talon, is built to train pilots for platforms such as the F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor. The aircraft is already operating at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, where it will gradually replace the T-38 by the late 2020s.
Boeing and Saab continue to promote the T-7A to allied nations such as India, South Korea, and several European NATO members, presenting it as a versatile solution for training pilots for both legacy and next-generation fighters.
