Saab, Boeing and BAE Systems have signed a letter of intent to collaborate on the Royal Air Force’s next fast-jet trainer programme, proposing the T-7 as the backbone of a modernised training system. The agreement also positions the three companies to pursue future international pilot-training opportunities together.
“Together, Boeing with Saab and now BAE Systems will offer innovative training solutions to best prepare RAF pilots for the future, including advanced fourth-, fifth- and sixth-generation fighters,” said Bernd Peters, Vice President of Business Development & Strategy at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “This collaboration enhances the best of our technological capabilities, strengthens the transatlantic industrial base and offers opportunities for cooperative development.”
The 2025 Strategic Defence Review confirmed the requirement for a new UK Advanced Jet Trainer. BAE Systems will lead the initiative, which will include final assembly in the UK and create high-value skilled jobs. The partners aim to deliver an integrated training system combining live and synthetic environments alongside advanced mission systems, while also exploring opportunities to expand the UK supply chain.
At the centre of the proposal is the T-7A Red Hawk, selected by the U.S. Air Force in 2018 as its next-generation pilot-training platform. Designed as an integrated live-virtual-constructive (LVC) system, T-7A delivers a multi-generation leap in capability. Its flexible architecture enables rapid adaptation to new technologies and mission needs, preparing pilots to fly the world’s most advanced multi-role fighters, fast-jets and bombers.
