EDWARDS AFB, Calif. - Major Bryce Turner, a test pilot from the 416th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base, has achieved a historic feat by becoming the first Air Force pilot to fly the T-7A Red Hawk.
On June 28, the aircraft lifted off at 11:51 a.m. during a test flight at the Boeing aircraft delivery center in St. Louis, Mo.
The T-7A is a brand-new, state-of-the-art pilot training system created specifically for the Air Force, with the purpose of training future fighter and bomber pilots.
The aircraft is the first digitally designed tactical aircraft, finessed using model-based systems engineering and 3D design tools.
The aircraft will replace the 1950’s-era T-38 Talon, providing the next generation of warfighters the training capability needed to face current and emerging threats. The T-7A is affectionally christened ‘Red Hawk’ as a homage to the iconic Tuskegee Airmen.
The accomplishment of flying this unique aircraft adds another chapter to the Turner family's rich legacy of aviation firsts.
As a third-generation AF fighter pilot, Turner follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, retired Lt. Col. Alexander Parker Turner, one of the first African American jet pilots in 1956, and his father, retired Col. Bryan Turner, the first African American F-22 pilot. His call sign, affectionally known as “Triple,” reflects these three generations of Airmen. (412th Wing 06/29/23) Three generations of breaking barriers: T-7A Red Hawk soars with US Air Force test pilot > Air Force > Article Display (af.mil)
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