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AETC commander assesses T-7A program during visits to test, production sites

  • Published
  • By Logan Steele
  • AETC Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  

Lt. Gen. Clark J. Quinn, commander of the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), visited industry and military partners involved in the development and production of the T-7A Red Hawk, Jan. 26 to 30.

Quinn had the opportunity to receive updates on the T-7A program and engage with Air Force Test Center (AFTC) personnel and development partners, Boeing and Saab, to discuss production, logistics, and alignment with future training requirements.

The T-7A Red Hawk is the Air Force’s new next-generation advanced trainer, designed to prepare pilots for the demands of modern and future combat aircraft. AETC officially took ownership of its first T-7A during a ceremony on Jan. 9.

Quinn’s trip began with a visit to the AFTC, where the T-7A underwent initial testing and certification. While there, he attended an Executive Test Summit for program updates, met with test pilots, and reviewed the facilities and simulators used throughout the testing process.

"The T‑7A represents a major advancement for the U.S. Air Force and Air Education and Training Command, and its progress reflects the dedication of the entire training enterprise," said Quinn. "The Air Force Test Center played an essential part in that effort."

The following morning, Quinn entered the cockpit of the T-7A and piloted the next-generation trainer for the first time.

"The T-7A and its next generation systems will provide our students training that is relevant and effective,” Quinn said. "I can’t wait for AETC instructor pilots to get the jet in their hands so they can show us what it can do.”

This flight follows comments from the Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Ken Wilsbach, who encouraged commanders and leaders in the Air Force to “step to the jet” and maintain or regain active flying status.

Quinn also visited production facilities operated by Boeing and Saab, the aircraft’s development partners, where the T-7A is produced and assembled, gaining insight into the process and logistics supporting the program.

AETC has already received two T-7A Red Hawks from Boeing, with a total of 351 currently planned to be delivered to the command in the coming years.

AETC is responsible for undergraduate pilot training for the Department of the Air Force. As the commander, Quinn is responsible for overseeing the integration of the T‑7A into the Air Force’s pilot training enterprise and ensuring the aircraft meets the command’s evolving training requirements.