In this series of profiles, we take a close look at the fleet of training aircraft in use at our sites across the UK, and the work they carry out for the UK’s Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS).
BAE Systems Hawk T2
The Hawk T2 has been the mainstay of UKMFTS Fast Jet training since 2011. However, Ascent has a different relationship with this aircraft than the rest of the fleet. While Ascent is responsible for the provision of all other UKMFTS aircraft, the Hawk T2 is managed as a separate contract between the MOD and BAE Systems.
Twenty eight Hawk T2s are based at RAF Valley and used for advanced Fast Jet training. They are sisters to the Red Arrows display team’s Hawk T1 aircraft.
Statistics
- Length: 40ft 9in (12.43m)
- Height: 13ft 1in (3.98m)
- Wingspan: 29ft 9in (9.08m)
- Wing area: 179.64 sq ft (16.70m2)
- Max take-off weight: 20,000lb (9,100kg)
- Max speed: 1,028km/h (Mach 0.9)
- Max altitude: 42,000ft
Photos: Taken on arrival at RIAT 2025 by Aviation PhotoCrew
