Update: Competitors declare for US Navy jet trainer requirement

Three companies have declared their intent to bid for the US Navy (USN) jet trainer requirement.

A conceptual image of the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk in US Navy colours. Along with Lockheed Martin and Leonardo, the company is to compete the service's T-45 Goshawk replacement programme. (Boeing)

Boeing, Leonardo, and Lockheed Martin confirmed to Janes on 10 August that they are to compete the service's Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) programme to replace the Boeing T-45 Goshawk.

Boeing responded that it would put forward its T-7A Red Hawk, noting, “Boeing is always ready to support the US Navy in its training missions”. Lockheed Martin told Janes that it would offer the T-50A aircraft with support from co-developer Korea Aerospace Industries, saying, “We offered modest modifications to the baseline T-50A aircraft to meet the requirements identified in the [US] Navy's request for information.” Leonardo said it would compete its M-346 Master, adding, “The M-346 is fitted for the US Navy training requirement. We are making a comprehensive evaluation before the next steps in the process.”

Beyond these three, BAE Systems was noncommittal on whether or not it would offer its Hawk AJT, saying only, “Our primary focus remains on supporting the T-45 Goshawk's readiness and availability through the production of spare components and providing engineering expertise. We remain committed to supporting the US Navy and continue to collaborate with our partners on supporting future requirements.”