Boeing taps Triumph for T-X offer

Boeing has selected Triumph Group as a major supplier for its T-X US Air Force training jet offer, the company announced on 15 September.

Under this agreement, if the air force awards the contract to Boeing, Triumph’s Aerospace Structures will supply the wing, vertical tail and horizontal tail structures for the aircraft.

Triumph Group produces a broad portfolio of aviation and industrial components, accessories, subassemblies, systems and aircraft structures.

Boeing is teamed with Saab for the T-X programme. The team is also working on plans to establish manufacturing and production capability in the US should the Boeing and Saab solution be selected.

Saab has started the process to evaluate and identify potential locations for production. The final choice regarding location would be made based on what best serves the needs of the programme as well as Saab’s own long-term strategy for growth.

Håkan Buskhe, president and CEO of Saab AB, said: ‘The Boeing and Saab T-X is designed and purpose built for the US Air Force training mission, so we believe that the entire aircraft, including our part, should also be manufactured in the US.

‘Saab has already invested in the development of the T-X Advanced Trainer aircraft and if Saab and Boeing win, Saab will carry that commitment a step forward into manufacturing and production in the US.’

The T-X programme is underway to replace the air force's fleet of aging T-38 aircraft. The initial acquisition for 350 aircraft and the associated ground based training and support is worth up to $16 billion. The contract award is expected by the end of 2017.