T-1As to get lifespan extension

The first T-1A Jayhawk was delivered to Reese Air Force Base, Texas, in 1992. More than 26 years later, the AF is determined that the trainer’s lifespan will extend into the 2030s. They made that decision when Field Aerospace, and multiple subcontractors, was awarded a $155.7M modernization contract for upgrading the avionics on its entire fleet of 178 Jayhawks, 16 flight trainers, and 14 part-task trainers. Starting in 2018, the focal point of the upgrades is Rockwell Collins' Pro Line 21 integrated avionics system. Field Aerospace’s installation work will be done at its Oklahoma City, Okla., facility and is expected to be completed by 2025. The AF has ensured the T-1A will still be in service to train pilots. The modularity of the Pro Line 21 system means that further upgrades could push that date further down the road. (Source: Avionics 04/24/18) Gulf Coast Note: The T-1A Jayhawks are used as a trainer at multiple AF sites along the Gulf Coast, including the 451st Flying Training Squadron at NAS Pensacola, Fla.; and the 14th Flying Training Wing, and 43rd AF reserve squadron, at Columbus AFB, Miss. More than 700 pilots train with the T-1A annually.