McDonnell-Douglas / BAe T-45 Goshawk
(UK/USA)
Notes: In 1981, this derivative of the BAe Hawk T.60 was selected as the winner of the VTXTS New Trainer programme, which sought a common replacement for the USN’s T-2 Buckeyes and USMC’s TA-4J Skyhawks. Despite the visual similarity, there are many differences. The landing gears are larger, wider, and heavier, with the nosegear (now twin-wheel) being equipped with a T-Bar for catapult launches. The control surfaces were modified for slower landing speeds, and obviously an arrestor hook was added. Armament was reduced to two underwing pylons and one centreline drop tank station.
BAe is responsible for the engine, fuselage, wings, and tail. McDonnell-Douglas (now Boeing) is responsible for the nose, cockpit, canopy, landing gear, and flight systems. A total of 223 will be delivered between 1991 and 2009. The type is slated to remain in service until at least 2035.
Variants
T-45A: Baseline version, all are now being upgraded to T-45C.
T-45B: Was to have been a non-carrier capable version for land use only, never funded.
T-45C: Improved safety features and digital “glass cockpit”.
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Max speed: |
560kts |
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Range: |
700NM |
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Ceiling: |
42,500’ |
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Armament: |
x2 hard points for practice bombs or LAU-series rocket pods |
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Electronics: |
AN/APX-100 IFF, AN/ARN-182 radio, AN/APN-194 radar altimeter, AN/ARN-144 VHF carrier landing aid, AN/USN-2 carrier landing aid |
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Crew: |
2 (pupil, instructor) |
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Dimensions: |
L 39’4” WS 20’10” H 13’5” Weight (empty): 10,403lbs |
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Powerplant: |
x1 Rolls-Royce F405-RR-401 Adour turbofan |