Boeing first out of blocks with T-X proposal | IHS Jane's 360

The T-X project began in 2009, with the Air Education and Training Command (AETD) formulating a requirement and undertaking an analysis of alternatives to satisfy an anticipated need for between 350 and 450 new aircraft. A contract award had originally been planned for 2012, but in its fiscal year 2013 budget proposals the USAF suggested that the initial operating capability for the T-X would be delayed to 2020 and may well slip further.

The AETD uses the T-38 to train pilots for front-line types once they have completed their basic flying training on the Beechcraft T-6A Texan II. The USAF plans to extend the service life of the T-38Cs out to 2029 due in part to delays to the T-X programme to field a modern replacement.