The UK Ministry of Defence has launched a request for information for a new Jet Training System to replace the RAF’s Hawk T1 and Hawk T2 aircraft, covering both fast-jet training and the Red Arrows display team. The notice is an initial market-sounding step rather than a tender, with suppliers invited to respond by 11 September 2026.
The programme sits under the National Armaments Director group and is linked to the Defence Investment Plan, which has allocated £360 million for the Jet Training System recapitalisation. The new capability is intended to support pilot transition to fifth- and sixth-generation air systems, including the F-35 and the Global Combat Air Programme.
Industry interest is expected to focus on BAE Systems, Boeing and Saab’s T-7 Red Hawk proposal, alongside Leonardo’s M-346. No selection has been made, but the requirement is the first formal procurement step towards replacing the Hawk family and could influence the RAF’s future training supply chain, including the level of UK industrial workshare.