Boeing Responds to Australian RFI with T-7 Trainer Aircraft

31 Juli 2020

Boeing T7A trainer (photo : Boeing Defense)

Boeing has provided information to the Commonwealth of Australia on the T-7 in response to the AIR6002 Phase 1 future Lead-In Fighter Training System (LIFTS) program. The T-7, which is scalable, interoperable and configurable, is ideally suited to address the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) next-generation frontline fast-jet aircraft training requirements.

The advanced pilot training system features a low-risk, leading-edge, live, virtual and constructive fifth-generation aircrew training environment. “No other training system in the world today will better develop the skills required to operate the RAAF’s most advanced frontline aircraft like the F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler and the F-35,” said Chuck Dabundo, Vice President, Boeing T-7 Programs.

Boeing T7A trainer (photo : AndrewB)

The advanced system – which incorporates the T-7 aircraft and a suite of ground-based training and support equipment including simulators and digital debrief stations – has the flexibility to evolve as technologies, missions and training needs change. “The T-7 stands apart as a compelling solution for Australia’s future training requirements,” said Scott Carpendale, Boeing Defence Australia Vice President and Managing Director.

“We believe it meets Australia’s current and future fast-jet training needs with its next-generation system that combines live, virtual and synthetic training environments.” In September 2018, the U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a contract with a potential value of up to US $9.2 billion to supply 351 T-7A Red Hawk aircraft and 46 trainers to replace the Air Education and Training Command’s aging T-38 fleet. The T-7A has recorded more than 200 engineering and manufacturing development flights to date, and is tracking to deliver to the USAF in support of initial operating capability (IOC) in 2024.

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