BAE, Boeing, and Saab Propose T-7 Red Hawk for RAF’s Next Jet Trainer

Trilateral partnership targets Hawk replacement with advanced training system and UK-based production

BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab have formalized a strategic partnership to propose the T-7 Red Hawk as the Royal Air Force’s future fast-jet trainer. The collaboration, announced in late 2025 and reaffirmed at the Dubai Airshow, responds to the UK Ministry of Defence’s call for a cost-effective, high-performance replacement for the Hawk T1 and T2 fleets.

The T-7 Red Hawk, originally developed by Boeing and Saab for the U.S. Air Force, is positioned as the centerpiece of a modern training ecosystem integrating live and synthetic capabilities. BAE Systems will lead the UK-based industrial effort, including final assembly—likely at its Warton facility in Lancashire—and expansion of the domestic supply chain.

The 2025 Strategic Defence Review outlined the urgent need for a new advanced jet trainer, citing persistent engine issues and low availability rates with the Hawk T2. The RAF seeks a common platform to serve both the Red Arrows and operational training units at RAF Valley, with Hawk T1 and T2 retirement dates set for 2030 and 2040 respectively.

Bernd Peters, Vice President of Strategy at Boeing Defense, Space & Security, emphasized the T-7’s adaptability: “Together with Saab and BAE Systems, we’re offering a solution that prepares RAF pilots for fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-generation fighters.”

Competing platforms include Leonardo’s M-346, Korea Aerospace Industries’ TF-50, Turkish Aerospace’s Hurjet, and British start-up Aeralis with its modular trainer concept.

Latest Developments (January 2026):

•  Formal Bid Submission Expected Q1 2026: The consortium is preparing to submit its formal proposal to the UK MoD, with BAE Systems confirming readiness for domestic production.

• Dubai Airshow Momentum: The announcement at the Dubai Airshow drew significant attention, with industry analysts noting the T-7’s modular design and digital twin capabilities as key differentiators.

•  International Training Potential: The partnership aims to position the UK as a global pilot training hub, leveraging the T-7’s interoperability and export potential.

•  Competitor Landscape: Other contenders include Leonardo’s M-346, Korea Aerospace Industries’ TF-50, Turkish Aerospace’s Hurjet, and British start-up Aeralis with its modular trainer concept.

Source: XAirForces News, 12 January 2026

Photo: T-7 Red Hawk RAF trainer. BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab propose the T-7 Red Hawk as the RAF’s next jet trainer, aiming to replace the Hawk fleet with a UK-assembled, advanced training system (Photo by ©XAirForces)

Editor: Marry Watson (©XAirForces News Editor from UK and USA)

Keywords: T-7 Red Hawk, RAF trainer, Hawk replacement, BAE Systems, Boeing, Saab, UK jet trainer, Royal Air Force fast-jet training program, UK Strategic Defence Review 2025, Hawk T1 and T2 retirement, synthetic pilot training systems, Warton final assembly, international pilot training collaboration, Red Arrows replacement aircraft, UK defense industry supply chain

BAE, Boeing, and Saab Propose T-7 Red Hawk for RAF’s Next Jet Trainer


(12.01.2026)