The U.S. Air Force cleared Boeing’s T-7A Red Hawk for low-rate initial production (LRIP) on April 23, 2026, awarding a $219 million contract for 14 aircraft to begin replacing the T-38 Talon.
The approval, known as Milestone C, does not grant Boeing open-ended production authority. The Air Force will separately authorize each of the first three LRIP lots, incorporating lessons from developmental testing before committing to additional batches.
“Reaching Milestone C is a testament to the dedicated government and industry teams who have worked diligently to overcome complex technical hurdles,” said William Bailey, who is performing the duties of the Air Force’s assistant secretary for acquisition, technology, and logistics.
Rodney Stevens, program executive officer for training at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), called the decision “monumental,” saying it signals “confidence in the aircraft’s design.”
✅Cleared hot for production!!!
Reaching Milestone C signals progress toward equipping the next generation of @usairforce pilots with cutting-edge training capabilities. #T7ARedHawk #TheFirstCommand https://t.co/McZsdeXz6o
— AETC – First Command (@AETCommand) May 4, 2026
“Replacing our 60-plus-year-old T-38s is a top priority,” said Brig. Gen. Matthew Leard, the Air Education and Training Command (AETC) director of plans, programs, requirements, and international affairs.
The clearance follows more than $1.8 billion in development losses Boeing absorbed under a fixed-price contract, Flight Global reported. Flight control software deficiencies, ejection seat problems, and supply chain disruptions pushed Milestone C more than two years past its original target.
“Milestone C positions us to start low-rate initial production this year,” Boeing T-7 program manager Andy Adams said.
Ready and able.
Thank you, @USAirForce, for your trust and partnership on the T-7A #RedHawk. Milestone C clears the way for low-rate initial production. Getting this trainer to future fighter and bomber pilots quickly is our mission and commitment to you. Let’s go fly! pic.twitter.com/RcWtjv58Wy
— Boeing Defense (@BoeingDefense) May 4, 2026
The program covers 351 T-7As and 46 ground-based training simulators across five AETC bases. Boeing won the $9.2 billion contract in September 2018 alongside Saab of Sweden, which builds the aircraft’s aft fuselage. The first Red Hawk arrived at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph on December 5, 2025, entering service with the 99th Flying Training Squadron, which traces its lineage to the Tuskegee Airmen. Initial operational capability is targeted for 2027.
