Boeing responds to Australia's request for information for future lead-in fighter training solution

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.

On July 30, 2020, Boeing annunced that it 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.

According to the company, the T-7 has the right features to meet the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) next-generation frontline fast-jet aircraft training requirements. The aircraft is scalable, interoperable and configurable and its related 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.

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 collected 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.

Source, Image: Boeing