The UK Ministry of Defence has opened market engagement for a new Jet Training System to replace the Royal Air Force’s Hawk T2 advanced trainer and the Hawk T1 flown by the Red Arrows. The request for information, published on 7 August, begins early-stage procurement work for a programme that remains at the information-gathering stage rather than a formal tender.
The requirement stems from the Defence Investment Plan unveiled in June, which set aside £360 million for full recapitalisation of the jet training system and linked the effort to future fifth- and sixth-generation air systems. The new aircraft is expected to support training for pilots moving on to Typhoon, F-35 and GCAP-era platforms, while also providing a replacement for the Red Arrows before the Hawk T1 leaves service around 2030.
The ministry is seeking a solution with significant UK industrial participation, leaving the aircraft type, prime contractor and procurement structure open. Potential bidders mentioned in industry reporting include BAE Systems, Boeing, Saab, Leonardo, Korea Aerospace Industries and Turkish Aerospace.