BAE Systems’ Advanced Hawk Trainer Jet Demonstrator Completes First Flight

A concept of a future variant of BAE Systems' Hawk trainer jet aircraft has flown for the first time at the Company’s military aircraft facility in Warton, UK.

The concept demonstrator features an upgraded cockpit equipped with BAE Systems’ LiteHUD (a low-profile head-up display) and a large area display that introduces a new student/pilot training experience. It also features a redesigned wing that increases performance in areas such as turn rates, angles of attack and both take-off and landing.

Other technology advances include increased stores capability, a new set of defensive aids and a range of new flight systems, all aimed at ensuring Hawk continues to provide the edge in fast jet pilot training, as well as offering increased operational utility.

The first flight of the aircraft builds on its public debut at Aero India 2017 in Bangalore earlier this year.

Steve Timms, Managing Director Defence Information, Training & Services at BAE Systems said: “The new features in Advanced Hawk have been developed after listening to our customers’ views on where fast jet pilot training will go in the future and how we ensure the Hawk continues to meet their requirements.

“Many of the proposed features of an Advanced Hawk, such as the large area display and new wing, could be achievable as upgrades,” he said.