MOD weighs UK production in future Hawk replacement

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that no decision has yet been made on whether a future replacement for the Hawk fast jet trainer will be built in the UK.

Responding to a parliamentary question from Luke Akehurst, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the Strategic Defence Review had set an intention to pursue “cost effective replacements for the Hawk aircraft.” Pollard added that decisions on “production, sustainment, and replacement” will only follow completion of the Defence Investment Plan. He also pointed to broader government policy, noting that “the Hon. Gentleman will be aware of this Government’s strong support for making more defence equipment in the UK.”

While domestic manufacture remains a stated political priority, it is not yet a formal commitment for the Hawk replacement programme. Further detail is expected once the Defence Investment Plan is published.

The United Kingdom is developing a programme to replace the BAE Systems Hawk T1 and T2 aircraft, which provide advanced fast jet training for the Royal Air Force. Work is focused on defining requirements for a future training system that combines live flying and synthetic elements, with the Ministry of Defence still shaping the scope before issuing a formal tender. The effort has gained momentum because of increasing sustainment pressures on the Hawk fleet and a desire to modernise training ahead of next generation combat aircraft entering service.

Contenders currently positioning themselves include the Boeing, Saab and BAE Systems team offering the T7A Red Hawk, which they have proposed to assemble in the United Kingdom. Leonardo is promoting the M346 as another option and has highlighted its existing training systems with other European air forces. The programme remains in the preliminary phase, with industry lobbying under way but no official competition launched.