First Public Flight Demonstration For The Propose T-38 Replacement

The Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) made its first U.S. flight demonstration over the weekend at the Fort Worth Alliance Air Show. The performance showcased the capabilities of the airplane that BAE says delivers the 5th generation sensor and information management skills needed by future U.S. fighter pilots.

The flight demonstration in Fort Worth is part of a National Road Show launched in September by BAE Systems with an exclusive strategic partnership announcement with Northrop Grumman - the original manufacturer of the T-38 - to compete in the U.S. Air Force's "T-X" program for the replacement of the aging T-38 trainer with the Hawk Advanced Jet Training System (AJTS).

BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman plan to offer the Hawk AJTS, which would be manufactured in the United States with the involvement of a strong U.S. supply chain. BAE Systems will prime this pursuit and Northrop Grumman will serve as the manufacturing partner for the new Hawk aircraft. "The Hawk AJTS is the world's most successful and proven advanced jet training system; in service and ready now to meet the needs of the U.S. Air Force," said Robert Wood, Vice President and lead for BAE Systems' Hawk Advanced Jet Training System Team. "Today's flight demonstration in Fort Worth, coupled with our Demonstration Trailer, provides a unique opportunity to highlight this low-risk, low-cost solution as a potential replacement for the T-38."

The Hawk AJTS National Road Show features a demonstration trailer that showcases video, simulations and interactive exhibits, including a cockpit simulator, illustrating the unique features of the Hawk AJTS. It will be on display at air shows, trade shows and conferences across the country

Over 900 Hawk aircraft have been sold, or are on order to date, to 18 countries and the aircraft is currently helping produce highly trained pilots around the world. The Hawk is the future lead-in fast jet trainer for the F-35 for the U.S. Navy, and Marine Corps, the UK, Canada and Australia.  (Photos courtesy BAE)

FMI: www.baesystems.com/HawkforUSAF