Saab, Boeing and BAE Systems Collaborate for Next-Gen RAF Pilot Training System

Saab, Boeing, and BAE Systems have taken a significant step in reshaping the Royal Air Force's future fast-jet training process by signing a Letter of Intent to work together on the UK's upcoming Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) program. Focusing on the Boeing–Saab T-7 training system, this collaboration seeks to provide a state-of-the-art, fully integrated solution that will equip RAF pilots for the operational challenges of fourth-, fifth-, and even sixth-generation combat aircraft.

The announcement comes in response to the need for a new AJT as outlined in the UK’s 2025 Strategic Defence Review. This document emphasised the pressing requirement to replace the long-serving BAE Systems Hawk T2 fleet and update the training infrastructure supporting the RAF’s fast-jet program. In this new partnership, BAE Systems will assume a leading role, managing a UK-based final assembly line for the aircraft. This investment is anticipated to create high-value jobs and enhance the nation's industrial capabilities.

Central to the proposed training solution is the T-7 Red Hawk, the aircraft chosen by the United States Air Force in 2018 as its next-generation jet trainer. The T-7 was specifically designed to transition pilots from basic fast-jet training to the tactical challenges of flying advanced fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35 Lightning II, and upcoming sixth-generation platforms.

Centred on a cohesive live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) training framework, the T-7 system merges in-flight training with high-quality simulation and synthetic environments. This capability is increasingly essential for equipping pilots for contemporary digital cockpits, interconnected battlespaces, and multi-domain operations. Featuring swift software updates and an open-architecture design, the T-7 can adapt to new threats, sensors, and tactics as they develop.

Speaking on the partnership, Bernd Peters, Vice President of Business Development & Strategy at Boeing Defence, Space & Security, emphasised the significance of the collaboration: “Together, Boeing with Saab and now BAE Systems will offer innovative training solutions to best prepare RAF pilots for the future, including advanced fourth-, fifth- and sixth-generation fighters. This collaboration enhances the best of our technological capabilities, strengthens the transatlantic industrial base and offers opportunities for cooperative development.”

The T-7 was originally developed through a deep industrial partnership between Boeing and Saab, a cooperation that has delivered a powerful blend of engineering innovation, rapid prototyping, and modern manufacturing technologies. Saab’s head of Business Area Aeronautics, Lars Tossman, highlighted the strength of this partnership and its potential for the UK: “The strong partnership between Boeing and Saab developed the T-7 to be the world’s best solution for future pilot training. By working with BAE Systems, Saab believes the UK can gain a worthy successor to the Hawk that is the right choice for pilots for decades to come.”

BAE Systems, as the original designer and manufacturer of the iconic Hawk trainer series, brings decades of experience in fast-jet training systems as well as deep insight into the RAF’s requirements, infrastructure and operational culture. Simon Barnes, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Air sector, said the collaboration positions the companies to deliver an unmatched solution: “Our new collaboration with Boeing and Saab will enable us to present a compelling offer to the UK Royal Air Force and our global customers, leveraging the latest tech innovation in training systems and a world-class jet trainer aircraft. We’re committed to ensuring this solution offers the best overall outcome for the nation to support the UK’s combat air readiness and deliver economic benefit.”

A key element of the agreement is its commitment to boosting the UK’s aerospace and defence industrial base. The companies will explore opportunities for a UK supply chain, domestic manufacturing, and ongoing support activities, strengthening both economic impact and long-term sovereignty in fast-jet training capability.

This aligns with the UK’s strategic focus on expanding domestic aerospace capacity and reducing dependency on overseas production for critical defence assets. A UK-assembled T-7 would integrate British engineering, training expertise and support infrastructure while still benefiting from the global reach and proven design of the Boeing–Saab system.

Although the immediate focus is on meeting the RAF's needs, all three companies see this partnership as a foundation for future international training exports. With the increasing global demand for advanced training systems that can prepare pilots for next-generation fighters, the T-7, enhanced under UK leadership, could emerge as a competitive option for allied air forces.