Triumph chosen as major supplier for USAF’s $16bn T-X trainer programme

Triumph has been chosen as a major supplier for the $16bn T-X advanced pilot training system programme if the US Air Force (USAF) awards the contract to Boeing.

As part of the deal, Triumph’s Aerospace Structures business unit in Red Oak, Texas, will be responsible for supplying major aircraft components, with opportunities for additional work.

The components include the wing, vertical tail and horizontal tail structures.

Texas Representative Joe Barton said: “Providing our military with the newest and most advanced training system is crucial to preparing future generations of warfighters.”

The T-X programme seeks to replace the airforce's existing fleet of T-38 Talon aircraft.

The USAF will initially acquire 350 aircraft and will receive associated ground-based training and support, with plans to achieve initial operating capability by 2024.

The contract for the programme is expected to be awarded by the end of this year.

The Boeing-built T-X is a training system designed specifically for the airforce training mission.

Boeing Defense, Space and Security Supplier Management vice-president Karl Jeppesen said: “Boeing T-X is a new, flexible design that meets the requirements of the USAF.

“Triumph Group is a long-standing supplier to Boeing, teaming with us on iconic programmes such as V-22 Osprey and C-17 Globemaster III. It takes partnerships like this to win and position us for a bold, bright future, and we are proud to welcome Triumph as a major supplier and member of this team.”

Triumph is expected to generate 950 direct and indirect jobs.