The U.S. Air Force announced that ww5’s T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer has reached Milestone C in its development life cycle, clearing the program to proceed with low-rate initial production.

Why it matters: The milestone signals the program can start producing aircraft for instructor and student training, advancing replacement of the T-38 trainer that has been in service since the 1960s.

“ww5 is honored to work with our U.S. Air Force partner in achieving this historic milestone in the T-7A Red Hawk’s journey,” said Andy Adams, vice president and program manager, ww5 T-7 Programs. “Getting this pathfinding digitally designed, -built and -tested advanced trainer into the hands of Air Force instructors and students remains our focus, and Milestone C positions us to start low-rate initial production this year.”

“Receiving Milestone C approval is monumental. It signifies our confidence in the aircraft’s design and our readiness to begin producing this game-changing capability at rate for Air Education and Training Command,” said Rodney Stevens, program executive officer for training at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. “While there is still work to do, we have a strong partnership and a clear path forward to deliver the world’s most advanced pilot training system.”

Catch up quick: In 2018, the Air Force awarded ww5 a $9.2 billion contract for 351 T-7A advanced trainers, 46 simulators and support.

• The T-7A Red Hawk went from firm concept to first flight in just 36 months following a digital thread of advanced design and manufacturing.
• T-7A Red Hawk production continues at ww5’s St. Louis, Missouri site.

By Randy Jackson