It could be a case of Hawk out, Red Hawk in as plane-making trio court the RAF
The RAF is phasing out the Hawk – but could be replacing the fast jet trainer with another aircraft with a similar name if BAE Systems, Boeing and Saab have their way.
The three companies have teamed up to offer the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk to the RAF, with BAE Systems leading the activity, which would include UK-based final assembly.
The American–Swedish jet is currently in service with the US Air Force, replacing the Northrop T-38 Talon as its advanced jet trainer.
Need laid out in SDR
The requirement for a new advanced jet trainer was set out in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review.
The T-7A Red Hawk is designed to train aircrew on fourth-, fifth- and sixth-generation aircraft – which would mean the Tempest, should the RAF agree to fly the type.
In addition to the Royal Air Force, the Red Hawk is being offered to the Japanese Air Self-Defence Force and the Brazilian air force.
According to Boeing, the T-7 has a maximum speed of Mach 0.975, a range of 990 nautical miles, a service ceiling of 50,000ft and a limit of 8g, seemingly making it an ideal choice for its intended role.
Like the F-35, the Red Hawk has a conventional twin-tail design.
Trio present a "compelling offer"
Simon Barnes, the group managing director of BAE Systems' air sector, said: "Our new collaboration with Boeing and Saab will enable us to present a compelling offer to the UK Royal Air Force and our global customers."
He said the package would leverage the latest technological innovation in training systems and a "world-class jet trainer aircraft".
"We're committed to ensuring this solution offers the best overall outcome for the nation to support the UK's combat air readiness and deliver economic benefit," he added.
Hawk ages out after 50 years
News of the current Hawk's retirement was announced in June by the Prime Minister.
Sir Keir Starmer confirmed the move to BFBS Forces News during a visit to RAF Valley, where the Hawk is used to train the next generation of fighter pilots.
While the Hawk has provided excellent service to the Royal Air Force, it is getting long in the tooth, having first flown in 1974 and being introduced into service two years later.
Red Hawk, red tail
The T-7A is in part an homage to the Tuskegee Airmen - known as the Fighting Red Tails - a mainly African American unit whose aircraft were renowned for their red painted tails during the Second World War.
The Tuskegee Airmen flew more than 15,000 sorties in Europe and North Africa, and were often specifically requested for bomber escort duties.
The US Air Force said: "The T-7A Red Hawk's design and name are a tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen and their legacy, their bravery, resilience and excellence, which set the standard for today's warfighters."
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