BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab have signed a Letter of Intent to collaborate on the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) advanced jet trainer program, with the T-7A Red Hawk as the central element of the future training system. The agreement aims to integrate training capabilities along with associated mission systems, while also exploring opportunities to expand the supply chain in the United Kingdom.
BAE Systems will lead the initiative, which includes establishing a final assembly line in the UK and creating high-value jobs. “Our new collaboration with Boeing and Saab will allow us to present a strong offer to the Royal Air Force and our global customers, leveraging the latest technological innovation in training systems and a world-class jet trainer. We are committed to ensuring that this solution delivers the best outcome for the nation, supports the UK’s air combat readiness, and generates economic benefits,” said Simon Barnes, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Air sector.
For his part, Bernd Peters, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy at Boeing Defense, Space & Security, stated: “Together with Saab and now BAE Systems, we will offer innovative training solutions to prepare RAF pilots for the future, including fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-generation aircraft. This collaboration enhances our technological capabilities, strengthens the transatlantic industrial base, and opens opportunities for cooperative developments.”
Lars Tossman, Head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area, added: “The strong partnership between Boeing and Saab developed the T-7 as the world’s best solution for training future pilots. By working with BAE Systems, Saab believes the UK can acquire a suitable successor to the Hawk, which will be the right choice for pilots for decades to come.”
The need for a new advanced trainer was established in the United Kingdom’s 2025 Strategic Defence Review. The T-7A Red Hawk, selected by the U.S. Air Force in 2018, is an integrated training system for fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-generation aircraft. Its design enables adaptation to evolving technologies and diverse operational requirements, preparing pilots destined to operate advanced fighters and bombers.
Background of the Negotiation
In August, sources revealed that Boeing and Saab were holding preliminary talks with BAE Systems to explore potential cooperation aimed at replacing the BAE Hawk T2 in RAF service. The Hawk fleet, also used by the Red Arrows aerobatic team, ceased production in 2000. The 2024 Strategic Review recommended moving forward with its replacement, emphasizing proposals that integrate industrial participation in the UK.
Although no formal agreement existed at the time, the potential cooperation among the three companies was seen as a significant move within the European military trainer market. A BAE Systems spokesperson stated then that the company did not comment on rumors or speculation, although it reaffirmed the importance of training within its air strategy. Saab also avoided specific statements, citing the confidential nature of its partnership with Boeing on the T-7A.
The UK Ministry of Defence had confirmed in March 2024 that the RAF was assessing options to replace the Hawk T2 as part of an integrated training scheme, combining both live flight and virtual capabilities.
With the signing of the Letter of Intent, the process takes a formal step toward the potential incorporation of the T-7A Red Hawk as the RAF’s next advanced jet trainer.
Images for illustrative purposes only.
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