Overview
The T-45 Training System (T45TS), developed for and used by the U.S. Naval Air Training Command, is the first totally integrated jet aircraft training system. It comprises the Boeing-built T-45 Goshawk, advanced flight and instrument simulators, computer-assisted instructional programs, and a computerized training integration system. The integration of all five elements produces a superior pilot in less time and at lower cost than previous training systems. The T45TS has enabled the U.S. Navy to reduce total student flight-hours by 28 percent and duration of training by 17 weeks.
Boeing is currently under contract to develop the Virtual Mission Training System, a substantial upgrade that will provide student aviators with economical airborne training in the use of radar and weapons tactics against virtual enemy aircraft and real aircraft participating in the exercise.
Program Info and Recent Milestones:
- As of December 31, 2008, Boeing has delivered 214 T-45 Goshawks.
- As of December 31, 2008, the T-45 fleet has logged more than 850,000 flight-hours.
- The T45TS is used to train U. S. Navy and Marine Corps pilots for conversion into the F/A-18A-D Hornet, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, EA-6B Prowler, and AV-8B Harrier II Plus.
- Since entering service in 1992, T-45s have made more than 50,000 arrested landings aboard aircraft carriers.
- More than 3,500 student aviators have earned their'wings of gold' in the T-45.
- Boeing produces the forward fuselage and horizontal stabilators of the aircraft and performs final assembly and production flight-testing.
- Major program partners include BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce.
For more information, read the T-45 Training System (PDF) overview.
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