KAI rolls out T-X contender

[Zarvan]

KAI rolled out its contender for the USAF's T-X trainer competition on 17 December. Source: KAI
An enhanced version of the T-50 Golden Eagle advanced jet trainer developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Lockheed Martin has been unveiled to meet the US Air Force's (USAF's) T-X trainer requirement.

KAI rolled out the aircraft - dubbed the 'T-X demonstrator aircraft' - in a ceremony in the southern city of Sacheon on 17 December, with South Korean president Park Geun-hye in attendance.

A KAI official involved in the company's T-X bid told IHS Jane's that the newly adapted T-50 is a direct response for a "requirement for compatibility" with the USAF's Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft.

He said this requirement has lead to the T-50 T-X demonstrator being fitted with an aerial refuelling capability. Other new features not installed on the conventional T-50 include a large area display system and embedded training systems.

The official said KAI intends to collaborate further with Lockheed Martin over the next two years in undertaking ground and flight tests of the aircraft in preparation for the T-X request for proposals, which is expected to be issued in 2017.

The Korean offering is based on the T-50 advanced trainer/light fighter already in service. (KAI)

The T-X programme is valued at about USD8 billion and outlines a requirement for 350 aircraft to replace the USAF's ageing fleet of Northrop T-38C Talon aircraft, which are scheduled to retire from 2020.

In bidding for the programme, KAI and Lockheed Martin will be competing against a partnership between Boeing and Saab, which will offer a new aircraft design; BAE Systems' Hawk; Alenia Aermacchi's M-346, which will be designated T-100 in the United States; and a new design from Northrop Grumman.

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KAI rolls out T-X contender | IHS Jane's 360

 

[C130]

U.S should pick the Golden Eagle. We have been blocking T-50 sales time to repay the debt and Korea is a F-35 customer as well.


time to help out an ally.

 

[yugocrosrb95]

U.S should pick the Golden Eagle. We have been blocking T-50 sales time to repay the debt and Korea is a F-35 customer as well.


time to help out an ally.

Golden Eagle is mini F-16, with more powerful engine it is close.

 

[Khafee]

Golden Eagle is mini F-16, with more powerful engine it is close.

Powerful engine??? Please quote its dry and wet thrust in lbs.

Thank You

 

[yugocrosrb95]

Powerful engine??? Please quote its dry and wet thrust in lbs.

Thank You

Golden Eagle has a engine comparable to Gripen

F-16 has considerably more powerful engine.