Saab receives initial order for USAF T-X trainer EMD phase.

Saab has received an order from Boeing for the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase for the Advanced Pilot Training Aircraft, T-X. The value of this order is approximately USD 117.6 million. The order will run until 2022.

Saab/Boeing will deliver the USAF T-X trainer under a $9.2 bn contract
(Credit: Saab/Boeing)

Last month, the U.S. Air Force has awarded Boeing USD 9.2 billion for the development of a new advanced pilot training system that will help train fighter and bomber pilots for generations to come. Boeing is the designated prime contractor for the Advanced Pilot Training Program. Saab is a risk-sharing partner with Boeing in the development of the T-X aircraft.

The T-X programme is divided into multiple phases. This order concerns the first phase, EMD, in which Saab and Boeing industrialise the T-X aircraft together with the customer. EMD includes testing, U.S. military flight certification and delivery of five jets. The EMD phase will be followed by a serial production phase. 

“This order is an exciting step towards a whole new era when it comes to trainer jets. It lays the foundation for our joint work for many years to come. We look forward to taking these next steps together with Boeing,” says Håkan Buskhe, President and CEO of Saab.