Exclusive-Boeing/Saab in talks with BAE on UK jet trainer bid, sources say
Boeing and Saab have jointly developed the T-7 advanced trainer for the U.S. Air Force, while Britain has said it plans to replace the out-of-production Hawk fleet, part of which is instantly recognisable through its Red Arrows display team.
The proposals are at an early stage and details are still to be worked out, with no guarantee that an agreement can be reached, one of the sources said.
"We don't comment on rumour and speculation," a BAE spokesperson said.
"Training remains an important pillar of our air sector strategy. We continue to explore and develop our footprint in this area across both live and synthetic capabilities."
A spokesperson for Swedish defence firm Saab said: "We have a long-term partnership with Boeing on the co-development of T-7. Saab will not comment on rumours or speculation."
Boeing had no immediate comment.
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'This is something I intrinsically want to do. No one needs to tell me that I'm doing a good job, or that it's the right thing to do. It still feels right for me."
