RAF to get Hawk replacement for fast jet training after half a century of service
The RAF will be receiving a replacement for its ageing Hawk fast jet trainers – with the new aircraft potentially being made in Britain.
The Prime Minister 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.
It entered service with the RAF in 1976 and, despite a number of upgrades over its operational life, a new aircraft is the preferred option for the future.
The Strategic Defence Review, which was published on 2 June, specifically mentioned the RAF's T1 and T2 Hawk trainers.
It said they needed to be replaced with a new, cost-effective fast jet trainer.
The SDR also recommended that the current training arrangements for jet pilots should be "urgently revised", with more use of contractors and overseas training.
Sir Keir Starmer was asked during his visit whether he had had a chance to speak to the team at RAF Valley – and when the SDR's recommendations regarding the Hawk and fast jet training would come to fruition.
He told BFBS Forces News: "Yes I have. We've had that conversation. A number of them raised it with me.
"But first, can I just pay tribute to everyone at RAF Valley here. Because they are doing incredible training here.
"And I've talked to some of those being trained that are at various points in their training.
"They are dedicating their careers to be fast jet pilots on the frontline and at a time of great volatility in the world.
"I pay tribute to them and their families and everybody who provides the training in relation to the equipment capability."
In relation to the upgraded jets, he said: "I do think it's right that we upgrade for them – and that's what we're doing."
In addition to pilot training, the Hawk is the jet flown by the Red Arrows, the RAF's aerobatic display team.
Defence Secretary John Healey also discussed the future of the jet when he appeared at the main Armed Forces Day event in Cleethorpes, where the Red Arrows performed.
He said: "It's been around for a while. Its replacement is overdue, but as a Government, now we're taking that challenge.
"And across the board, I want to see defence being an engine for growth, with new jobs in all parts of the British Isles.
"I'm looking to direct defence investment to British jobs, British firms that can fulfil these sorts of contracts in the future."
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