Textron Systems has won a $41-million contract to support the US Air Force’s T-7A Red Hawk Advanced Pilot Training Program, specifically focused on the aircraft’s Maintenance Training System. The three-year task order was awarded by federal contractor Akima and supports efforts to enhance technical training for Air Force ground crews.
Under the agreement, Textron will design, assemble, and deliver common fuselage structures for three sustainment training simulators. These systems are intended to provide maintainers with realistic, hands-on training environments that closely replicate operational T-7A Red Hawk aircraft and their associated subsystems.
The simulators enable military technicians to practice component removal and installation, conduct inspections, and complete maintenance procedures using a mix of physical interaction and virtual assessment tools. The approach is designed to improve readiness while reducing reliance on live aircraft for training purposes.
All work will be performed at Textron’s Goose Creek, South Carolina facility, which specializes in tactical simulation solutions for fighter, bomber, and transport aircraft maintenance training. The contract also includes options worth up to $21 million, potentially increasing the total value to $62 million, with Textron collaborating closely with Pinnacle Solutions, an Akima subsidiary based in Alabama.
