Columbus Air Force Base will receive new training jets in the near future.
According to CNN, Boeing secured a contract to produce the new T-X aircrafts to replace its current T-38 jets for pilot training.
“The Air Force currently plans to purchase 351 T-X aircraft, 46 simulators, and associated ground equipment,” the Air Force said in a statement announcing the award, according to CNN.
CAFB First Lieutenant Public Affairs Officer Kara Crennan said the contract with Boeing was finalized Thursday. CAFB will receive a new line of trainer jets to replace the nearly 60-year-old T38. She added the contract states Boeing will build up to 475 trainer jets which will be disbursed between Air Force bases. There are three major Air Force bases for pilot training, including CAFB.
However, a timeline and details aren’t finalized yet, Crennan said. CAFB will receive more information throughout the next few months.
“Columbus Air Force Base is excited to get a new trainer,” Crennan said. “This is showing the progress that the Air Force is making as far as innovation and ensuring we are keeping up with the advancements in technology. While the T-38 is a wonderful trainer and aircraft and has served us faithfully the last 60 years, we are excited for what the future holds in this new T-X aircraft that Boeing is going to make for us.”
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