The second T-X aircraft built by Boeing and Saab has completed a 1h first flight a month after at least three bidding teams submitted proposals for the US Air Force’s T-38 trainer replacement contract.
The Boeing/Saab team flew the first of what calls a “production-ready” T-X test aircraft last December.
By flying the second aircraft, the Boeing/Saab team will continue working to demonstrate the performance of the singled-engined, two-seat design, which features a shoulder-wing and canted tails.
“The jet handled exactly like the first aircraft and the simulator, meeting all expectations,” says Matt Giese, Boeing test pilot for Air Force Programmes.
Boeing partnered with Saab to compete for the chance to build up to 350 trainers for the USAF. Lockheed Martin/Korea Aerospace has proposed the T-50A and Leonardo DRS has proposed a modified M-346 called the T-100.
Northrop Grumman developed an flew a prototype called the Model 400, but withdrew from the competition in February.
