On 15 May 2026, the US Air Force (USAF) announced that the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk programme had successfully reached Milestone C, allowing the aircraft to enter the low-rate initial production phase. The decision marks another important step towards replacing the ageing T-38 trainers, which have been in service with the USAF service since the 1960s.
The approval means the first production-standard aircraft can now be prepared for training duties, supporting the instruction of future fighter and bomber pilots within the USAF training system. Production of the new advanced trainer aircraft is ongoing at Boeing facilities in St. Louis, Missouri.
“Boeing is honored to work with our U.S. Air Force partner in achieving this historic milestone in the T-7A Red Hawk’s journey,” said Andy Adams, vice president and program manager, Boeing T-7 Programs. “Getting this pathfinding digitally designed, -built and -tested advanced trainer into the hands of Air Force instructors and students remains our focus, and Milestone C positions us to start low-rate initial production this year.”
The T-7A programme was launched in 2018 under a $9.2 billion contract covering 351 aircraft, 46 simulators and associated support systems. One of the key features of the project was the extensive use of digital engineering methods, enabling the aircraft to progress from the concept stage to the maiden flight in just thirty-six months.
An interesting fact is the name of the aircraft, as well as its vibrant red tail are a tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen – the first African American US military aviators, who flew red-tailed fighters during World War II.
More information about the T-7A Red Hawk can be found in our previous articles, First flight of Boeing T-7A Red Hawk with the USAF and Red Hawk arrives at Edwards AFB for flight testing.
Cover photo: A T-7A Red Hawk soars over Edwards Air Force Base, CA after conducting a developmental test mission over the Mojave Desert, 8 December 2025 (USAF photo by Bryce Bennett).
Information from the Boeing company and the USAF press materials were used. Department of Defence (DoD) information materials were used, in compliance with Public Domain licence. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
