BAE secures 11-year RAF Hawk contract

BAE Systems has been awarded an 11-year, £590m contract to continue its support of the RAF's Hawk fleet.

The Hawk aircraft is the RAF's jet trainer of choice for student pilots who will ultimately go on to operate aircraft including Typhoon, F-35 and next-generation combat aircraft. It is also the aircraft used by the Red Arrows and serves as a global ambassador for the organisation.

While the work centres around BAE's sites in North Wales, where the No. 4 Flying Training School is located, engineers from Samlesbury and Warton will also be involved in technical support, engineering and project management.

BAE has provided support to the Hawk fleet for 12 years. and the new, long-tern contract will deliver savings which will be reinvested into the RAF’s training capability.

Andrea Thompson, managing director – Europe & International, BAE Systems’ Air sector, said: "As the UK’s sovereign combat air capability provider, we pride ourselves in our close work with the RAF to understand its training and operational requirements; supporting the RAF to equip pilots with the skills, capabilities and equipment they need to safeguard national security.

"Through this collaborative approach with the RAF and our industry partners, we have secured a long term continuation of Hawk support, which will deliver improved value for money and allow savings to be reinvested which will ultimately benefit the UK’s air power talent and capability."