Rolls-Royce has joined BAE Systems’ Hawk advanced jet training system (AJTS) team as an exclusive partner to compete for the US Air Force (USAF’s) T-X trainer programme.
Representing the fourth member of the Hawk AJTS team besides BAE, Northrop Grumman and L-3 Link Simulation & Training, Rolls-Royce will serve as the engine supplier, leading the support and integration of the Adour Mk951 engine on the aircraft.
BAE Systems Hawk AJTS team vice president Robert Wood said that Rolls-Royce’s propulsion expertise, combined with their lengthy relationship with the USAF, makes them ideal to integrate Adour Mk951 engine in the Hawk AJTS aircraft.
"The selection of Rolls-Royce rounds out the Hawk AJTS team as we pursue the T-X program win," Wood added.
Rolls-Royce Defense Customer Business senior vice president Tom Hartmann said that the Rolls-Royce Adour engine has demonstrated success with 8.6 million flying hours and 200 engines already in service within the U.S. Department of Defense, plus hundreds of others in service around the world.
"The Hawk AJTS is the affordable, low-risk option, offering proven performance to the U.S. Air Force," Hartmann added.
Image: A Hawk trainer aircraft during its flight. Photo: BAE Systems.
