U.S. Air Force completes final T-7A Red Hawk escape sled test

The US Air Force completed the T-7A Red Hawk's final high-speed escape-system sled test at Holloman Air Force Base on October 7, 2026, at an effective airspeed of 550 knots. The trial evaluated a revised canopy-fracturing pattern and upgraded ejection-seat sequencer using a test dummy representing the smallest pilot candidate. Initial video showed the sequencer extending drogue-parachute deployment to stabilize the seat and reduce neck and spinal loads during separation. Trajectory, acceleration and biometric data remain under engineering review, with the completed test series supporting final escape-system qualification and subsequent production deliveries of the T-38C replacement.