Boeing, Saab complete first T-X flight
The first flight of the aircraft under development by Boeing and Saab for the US Air Force's (USAF's) T-X advanced pilot training programme has been completed, Saab announced on 20 December.
The 55 minute flight test validated key aspects of the single-engine jet and demonstrated the performance of the design. According to Saab the aircraft 'met all expectations'.
Test pilots trained for the flight using the complete Boeing T-X system, which includes ground-based training and simulation.
Boeing and Saab revealed their first two T-X aircraft in September 2016. The second is currently in ground testing and expected to fly in early 2017.
T-X will replace the USAF’s aging T-38 aircraft. Initial operating capability is planned for 2024.
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