USAF T-X Requirements

Detailed requirements for the T-X trainer aircraft family of systems that will replace the T-38 Talon in USAF service have been released by the USAF director of plans, programmes and requirements, who stated, "The T-X requirements are being released approximately ten months earlier than under the normal acquisition process and is part of an ongoing effort for more deliberate and open engagement with industry." The initial draft requirements were released in 2012, allowing industry to make more informed, early design decisions, adding that "the T-38 is no longer a practical trainer to prepare USAF pilots for newer, more advanced aircraft."