Britain to replace ageing Hawk jets under £360 million military training overhaul, with new aircraft planned for Red Arrows

Britain plans to spend £360 million between 2026-27 and 2029-30 to recapitalize military jet training and begin replacing the Hawk fleet. The future British Jet Training System is expected to enter service during 2030-35 and will include an aircraft suitable for the Red Arrows. Officials have not selected a platform, supplier, fleet size, or acquisition route, so the funding starts the replacement effort rather than awarding an aircraft contract. A separate £860 million allocation will support existing Hawk T1 and T2 operations over the next four years while the new training system is developed.