Air Force T-X Contract Winner

[awal2049]

We finally have an announcement on the next trainer aircraft for the United States Air Force. And it's not the T-50! The contract has been awarded to Boeing and Saab for their twin-stabilizer jet trainer (designated T-X). This comes as the 3rd recent contract win for Boeing, following the MQ-25 and the Air Forces UH-1N replacement. The contract is $9 billion for up to 475 aircraft and 120 simulators. The initial purchase is for 351 aircraft and 60 simulators. The aircraft is currently planned to enter service at the end of the 2024 fiscal year.

This definitely comes as a shock to me. I think the favorite for many people was the Lockheed Martin/KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, which has been in service in Eastern militaries since 2005. Based on the statements by the Air Force, it seems cost was the primary solution for choosing Boeing over Lockheed. What do you guys think of the decision?

https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-ne ... ining-jet/

[Adam]

Damn. I really loved the T-50. It's not my air force, but still... that's sad news.

[awal2049]

The aircraft has been designated the T-7A Red Hawk as a tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen.

https://amp-businessinsider-com.cdn.amp ... 20%251%24s