Saab Starts Production of U.S. Air Force T-7A Programme

Saab has started assembly production of its section of the T-7A aircraft, the advanced trainer developed and produced together with Boeing for the United States Air Force.

Saab is developing and producing the aft fuselage section for the advanced trainer. Seven aft units are in production in Linköping, Sweden for final assembly at Boeing’s U.S. facility in St. Louis, Missouri.

"In little over a year since we signed the EMD contract, we are starting production of our part of the T-7A jet. This achievement is possible due to the great collaboration between Saab and Boeing, and it is an honour to be part of this programme for the United States Air Force,” says Jonas Hjelm, head of Saab business area Aeronautics.

The work began on January 10, 2020 in Linkoping, Sweden. Future production of Saab’s part for the T-7A will move to a new U.S. site in West Lafayette, Indiana.

The Saab facility in West Lafayette is an important part of Saab’s growth strategy in the United States. It will create strong organic capabilities for the development, manufacturing and sales of its products, the company said.

Boeing is designated prime contractor for the T-7A advanced pilot training system acquisition by the U.S. Air Force. Saab and Boeing developed the aircraft with Saab as a risk-sharing partner. Saab received the EMD order from Boeing, on September 18, 2018.