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T-7A Red Hawk cleared for low-rate initial production

The milestone supports Boeing’s focus on delivering the jet to future fighter and bomber pilots and instructors.

May 04, 2026 in T-7 Red Hawk, Defense

A T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer takes off from St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The new U.S. Air Force jet is designed, built and tested for future fighter and bomber pilots. (© Boeing photo)

The U.S. Air Force announced that Boeing’s T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer has reached Milestone C in its development life cycle, clearing the program to proceed with low-rate initial production.

Why it matters: The milestone signals the program can start producing aircraft for instructor and student training, advancing replacement of the T-38 trainer that has been in service since the 1960s.

“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.”

A U.S. Air Force T-7A Red Hawk in flight over Edwards Air Force Base, California. The advanced trainer is currently in high ‘angle of attack’ (AoA) testing at the base, as the program reaches Milestone C. (U.S. Air Force photo)

“Receiving Milestone C approval is monumental. It signifies our confidence in the aircraft’s design and our readiness to begin producing this game-changing capability at rate for Air Education and Training Command,” said Rodney Stevens, program executive officer for training at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. “While there is still work to do, we have a strong partnership and a clear path forward to deliver the world’s most advanced pilot training system.”

Catch up quick: In 2018, the Air Force awarded Boeing a $9.2 billion contract for 351 T-7A advanced trainers, 46 simulators and support.

  • The T-7A Red Hawk went from firm concept to first flight in just 36 months following a digital thread of advanced design and manufacturing.
  • T-7A Red Hawk production continues at Boeing’s St. Louis, Missouri site.

By Randy Jackson