UK Ministry of Defence begins search for new jet trainers

The UK Ministry of Defence has launched a procurement process to replace the Royal Air Force's Hawk fleet. The new advanced jet training system is intended to support pilots transitioning to fifth- and sixth-generation combat aircraft for both the RAF and Royal Navy.

The program also seeks a replacement for the Hawk T1 aircraft used by the Red Arrows display team, which is scheduled to retire by the end of 2030 due to airframe fatigue and age. The Hawk T1 has been flown by the team since 1979.

The Ministry has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather technical data and invite manufacturers to a dialogue before a formal competition. Interested companies have until September 11 to register. The Ministry emphasized that the future program should include significant participation from the British aerospace industry through industrial workshare.

Potential international competitors include the Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk, the Leonardo M-346, the Korea Aerospace Industries T-50 family, and the Turkish Aerospace Hürjet. Currently, the UK does not have an indigenous jet trainer production line, as the BAE Systems Hawk production line was closed following the completion of final export orders.