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T-7A Red Hawk: Flight confirms safety, progress

  • Published
  • Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE,  Calif. -  In a significant demonstration of progress and commitment to modernizing pilot training, Lt. Gen. Brian Robinson, commander of Air Education and Training Command (AETC), became the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer aircraft here April 30.

T-7 Flight at Edwards AFB

Lt. Gen. Brian Robinson, Air Education and Training Command commander, prepares for a flight in the T-7A Red Hawk April 30 at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Robinson became the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A. His flight represented a significant demonstration of progress and commitment to modernizing pilot training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jennifer Healy)
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Robinson’s flight underscored the Air Force's confidence in the T-7A program and its commitment to accelerating the modernization of pilot training. By placing the aircraft in the hands of operational leaders early in the development process, the Air Force is ensuring that the T-7A not only meets the evolving needs of the warfighter today but also provides a foundation for safe, reliable, and sustainable pilot production for the future.

"The T-7 is an integral part of transforming pilot training to sustainably produce pilots in the quantities the Air Force requires," Robinson said. "AETC looks forward to a safe and reliable T-7 aircraft arriving at Randolph in December 2025 that will jumpstart the aircraft’s integration into pilot training." 

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson, commander of Air Education and Training Command (AETC), made history as the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk. (U.S. Air Force photo / CJ Raterman)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson, commander of Air Education and Training Command (AETC), made history as the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk. (U.S. Air Force photo / CJ Raterman)
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Robinson emphasized the significance of the T-7A's capabilities for preparing future generations of Air Force pilots.

"The T-7 handles exceptionally well – smooth, stable, and a true pleasure to fly, and represents the hard work and dedication of the entire T-7A team," Robinson stated. "Seeing its capabilities firsthand reinforces my confidence that the Red Hawk will equip our Future Undergraduate Pilot Training students with the specific skills and knowledge they need to excel in modern operational cockpits."

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson, commander of Air Education and Training Command, made history as the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk. (U.S. Air Force photo / Jennifer Healy)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson, commander of Air Education and Training Command, made history as the first non-test pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk. (U.S. Air Force photo / Jennifer Healy)
Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
The T-7A, developed by Boeing and Saab, is designed to replace the aging T-38 Talon, which has served as the Air Force's primary jet trainer for decades, and prepare pilots for the demands of 5th-generation combat aviation.

“The T-7 has modern digital flight controls, advanced avionics, and embedded training capabilities, all tailored for a new era of airpower," Robinson said. "Its advanced technologies, including an open architecture for rapid upgrades, a digital fly-by-wire system for enhanced handling and safety, and advanced cockpit systems mimicking those found in fifth-generation fighters, are truly groundbreaking."

The name, Red Hawk, honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the famed African American pilots and support personnel who flew signature red-tailed aircraft during World War II.