Boeing wins US Air Force T-X pilot training contract

Boeing won a $9.2-billion contract from the U.S. Air Force to provide 351 T-X jets, 46 simulators and associated ground equipment to replace the Air Education and Training Command's 57-year-old fleet of T-38C Talons, and transition cadets to the new aircraft in the Air Force’s T-X pilot-training program.

Pilots in undergraduate and graduate-level training courses will be trained with the skills and competencies required to transition to the T-X 4th and 5th-generation fighter and bomber aircraft. They will also train for combat with T-X jets and simulators from Boeing.

Boeing, prime contractor for the program, and its risk-sharing partner Saab designed, developed and flight tested two all-new, purpose-built jets ― proving out the system’s design, repeatability in manufacturing and training capability.

Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. David L. Goldfein says, "This aircraft will enable pilot training in a system similar to our fielded fighters, ultimately enhancing joint lethality."

Boeing can now begin placing orders with its suppliers, including Saab.