FIA 2026: Boeing cements partnership to pitch T-7 Red Hawk for UK trainer requirement
If selected for the RAF, the T-7 would replace current Hawk T1 and T2 fleets. (Image: BAE Systems)
BAE Systems, Boeing and Saab have signed a teaming agreement to advance their partnership on a next-generation pilot training offer for the UK, based on the T-7 Red Hawk.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in the partnership between the three companies and commits to a new UK-based final assembly and integration facility. The programme could create hundreds of jobs, with a UK supply chain supporting the life cycle of the T-7, if selected.
This means the UK should have sovereign control over its training requirements to meet next-generation combat air needs.
A BAE spokesperson told Shephard that all four UK nations were being considered for the production site, but that selection of Red Hawk for the RAF is not a foregone conclusion as other manufacturers may enter the competition.
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