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The trainer aircraft, jointly developed by Boeing and Saab, has been fitted with the final components.
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Saab has delivered the final aft (rear section) of the T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft developed by Boeing for the United States Air Force as part of a US$9.2 billion (AU$13.1 billion) contract.
Following the delivery, the forward and aft fuselages were reportedly joined together in less than 30 minutes.
The aft for the aircraft was delivered from Saab’s manufacturing facility in Linköping, Sweden.
However, future components are expected to be produced at the company’s manufacturing facility in West Lafayette, Indiana.
This is expected to reduce shipping times and increase collaboration between Boeing and Saab.
“We’re excited to begin building the first trainer jets future Air Force pilots will fly,” Paul Niewald, vice president, Boeing T-7 programs, said.
“Boeing and Saab quality and production teams will be closer, accelerating responsiveness to meet engineering and hardware needs.”
Jonas Hjelm, head of Saab’s business aeronautics, added: “Developed with an engineering approach based on digital models, the T-7A represents a revolutionary approach to developing aircraft.”
In total, Boeing has been contracted to develop 351 T-7A advanced trainers and 46 simulators, as well as providing logistics support.
According to Boeing, the aircraft was designed using advanced digital modelling and design techniques and was developed from concept to first flight in 36 months.
The T-7A leverages open architecture software, digital fly-by-wire controls, and advanced cockpit technology designed to improve safety and training for future fighter pilots.
[Related: Boeing Chinook helicopters to replace Germany’s Sea Stallion fleet]
