Boeing mum on AF T-X

ORLANDO, Fla. - Boeing continues to develop a custom-designed solution for the US Air Force’s T-X trainer replacement program with an eye on contract award in 2017. But Boeing VP Bob Gower indicated Dec. 1 that a preview is still a ways away. “We have not defined the timeframe that we will roll out the family of systems, including the new aircraft,” he told reporters. Boeing’s T-X plans are closely guarded. Almost nothing about its design has leaked. It is known that Boeing has teamed with Sweden-based Saab to develop the aircraft. But Boeing officials have insisted it won’t be a modified version of Saab’s Gripen fighter. The winner of the T-X competition will replace the service’s T-38 trainers with 350 new aircraft. (Source: Defense News, 12/02/14) Central Mississippi Note: Columbus AFB, Miss., is home of the 14th Flying Training Wing. Its mission is specialized undergraduate pilot training in the T-6 Texan II, T-38C Talon and T-1A Jayhawk aircraft. Following the T-6 phase of training, student pilots enter specialized track specific training - depending on the type aircraft they've been selected to fly – they use T-38s for fighter and bomber pilots or T-1As for tanker and airlift pilots. Student pilots selected to fly helicopters conduct training at the Army’s Fort Rucker, Ala.