Aviation news July 4, 2025 – As the RAF looks toward replacing the BAE Systems Hawk, particularly the Hawk T2 used for fast jet training, several aircraft are under consideration or seen as suitable replacements. The goal is to modernize the UK’s fast jet training system, improve operational cost-efficiency, and align training with 5th- and 6th-generation fighter capabilities (like the F-35 and Tempest).
Boeing–Saab T-7A Red Hawk
Country: USA/Sweden
Status: Entering service with the USAF
Role: Advanced jet trainer
Engine: GE F404
Key Features:
Designed to train pilots for 5th-gen fighters (F-22, F-35)
Fly-by-wire, open systems architecture
High thrust-to-weight ratio
Pros: Modern design, digital systems, long service life
Cons: Still undergoing full operational testing (as of 2025)
KAI T-50 Golden Eagle
Country: South Korea
Status: Operational with several air forces (ROKAF, Indonesia, Iraq, Philippines, Poland)
Role: Advanced trainer / light combat aircraft
Engine: GE F404
Key Features:
Supersonic (Mach 1.5)
Can be configured for combat roles
NATO interoperability (T-50 variants being acquired by Poland)
Pros: Proven platform, flexible roles, lower lifecycle cost
Cons: May require avionics/customization for RAF-specific needs
Leonardo M-346 Master
Country: Italy
Status: Operational (Italy, Israel, Poland, Singapore, others)
Role: Advanced/LIFT trainer
Engine: 2 × Honeywell F124
Key Features:
Designed for Lead-In Fighter Training (LIFT)
Compatible with F-35 and Eurofighter transition training
Optional combat-capable versions (M-346FA)
Pros: Mature platform, combat variant available, in use by NATO partners
Cons: Less thrust than T-50 or T-7, twin-engine (higher cost)
Aeralis Modular Jet (UK Concept)
Country: United Kingdom
Status: In development
Role: Modular training system (future-focused)
Key Features:
Modular airframe for training, ISR, aggressor, or combat use
Designed to lower lifecycle and maintenance costs
Pros: UK-built, future-proof, supports domestic aerospace
Cons: Not operational yet – long development timeline
BAE Systems Hawk T2 Upgrade or Hawk T3 (Hypothetical)
Country: United Kingdom
Status: In service / possible further development
Role: Advanced trainer
Key Features:
Proven airframe
Could be upgraded with more modern avionics or engines
Pros: Continuity, existing infrastructure, low transition cost
Cons: Aging airframe design; may not match 5th-gen training needs
Other Less Likely or Niche Options:
L-39NG (Czech Republic): Good for basic to intermediate training but lacks supersonic performance
Yakovlev Yak-130 (Russia): Politically unsuitable
Tornado ADV or retired fast jets: Obsolete and expensive to maintain
Summary: Most Probable Candidates
T-7A Red Hawk – modern, designed for 5th-gen prep, long-term solution
KAI T-50 – proven, supersonic, combat-capable
M-346 – widely used, mature LIFT platform
Aeralis – promising UK option, but longer-term
