BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab have announced a significant industrial partnership by signing a Letter of Intent to collaborate on the UK’s future fast-jet trainer requirement.
The agreement positions the Boeing-Saab T-7 training aircraft as the core of their joint proposal and establishes a framework for the three companies to pursue international pilot training opportunities. This move signals the formation of a powerful contender to meet the UK’s need for a new Advanced Jet Trainer, a requirement formally set out in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review.
Under the terms of the agreement, BAE Systems will take the lead role in the UK, a decision with substantial implications for the domestic supply chain. The collaboration includes a commitment to establish a UK-based final assembly for the aircraft, a move intended to create high-value engineering and manufacturing jobs. Furthermore, the partners have explicitly stated their intention to explore opportunities for growing the UK supply chain’s involvement in the T-7 programme, presenting a clear path for British firms to contribute to a globally significant platform.
The joint proposal will focus on delivering a comprehensive training system, integrating both live flying with advanced synthetic, ground-based simulation. This blended approach is designed to prepare Royal Air Force pilots for the complexities of operating fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation combat aircraft. Simon Barnes, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Air sector, noted that the collaboration will leverage “the latest tech innovation in training systems and a world-class jet trainer aircraft” to provide the best overall outcome for the UK.
The T-7A Red Hawk was selected by the U.S. Air Force in 2018 as its next-generation advanced pilot training system. Its adoption by the UK would enhance transatlantic industrial cooperation and interoperability. The aircraft’s modern, digitally engineered design allows for adaptation to evolving mission requirements and technologies. For the UK defence supply chain, this industrial partnership represents a major development, creating a tangible and well-defined opportunity to participate in one of the RAF’s most important future procurement programmes.
Image: BAE Systems
Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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