The Hawk trainer for a new generation: BAE reveals new version of jet for next generation fighters

  • Advanced Hawk looks like its 1970s predecessor, but boasts new technology and a redesigned wing
  • Head-up display shows pilots information at eye level and large display trains them while they fly 
  • The new interface includes lesson plans, rehearsals, mission executions and debriefings

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It may look like its 1976 predecessor, but the Advanced Hawk is packed with modern-day technology.

Developed by BAE Systems, the updated version boasts a new wing design for better performance, defensive aid and a type display equip a new pilot training experience.

The new display is equip with a data transfer interface that provides lesson plans, briefings, rehearsals, mission executions and debriefings.

It may look like its 1976 predecessor, but the new Advanced Hawk is packed with modern-day technology. Developed by BAE Systems, the updated version boasts a new wing design, defensive aid and a type display that introduces a new pilot training experience

It may look like its 1976 predecessor, but the new Advanced Hawk is packed with modern-day technology. Developed by BAE Systems, the updated version boasts a new wing design, defensive aid and a type display that introduces a new pilot training experience

HAWK'S REVAMPED COCKPIT DESIGN

The new concept Hawk features an upgraded cockpit equipped with BAE Systems' LiteHUD (a low-profile head-up display) and a new, large area display that introduces a new pilot training experience.

The display provides pilots with instant access to all of the information they need for a safe flight.

This includes communications, navigation, digital moving maps and weapons.

On the left sits the hands on throttle and stick, which controls the critical flight and weapon system controls.

Above the multifunction display is the head-up display, or LiteHUD, which provides the operator with flight, navigation, sensor and weapon aiming information.

BAE strategically positioned this screen at eye level, allowing the pilot to see the data without looking away from what is in front of them.

And on the right is the mission data and recording system.

This area records data during the flight, allowing the new pilots to learn as they fly and can also view the footage on the ground to run 'what if scenarios'.

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The original Hawk was introduced in 1976, which carried out a dual role of lightweight fighter and advanced training.

After its success BEA followed it with more models – all of which were more improved than the previous craft.

The firm increased range, added more powerful engines and redesigned the wings and undercarriage.

As technology progressed BAE also included radar, forward-looking infrared, GPS and night vision technology.

And by 2012, nearly 1,000 Hawks had been sold.

BAE Systems had released its Hawk trainer jet in the 1970s, which has since made its way into 18 countries around the world, New Atlas reported.

Now, the UK based defense and aerospace firm has introduced the latest model that still boasts the nostalgic look, but with a modern twist – and it has taken to the skies for its maiden flight. 

The new concept, is a joint venture with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, features an upgraded cockpit equipped with BAE Systems' LiteHUD (a low-profile head-up display) and a new, large area display that introduces a new pilot training experience - which will help new pilots get ready to fly the F-35 Lightning II.

The display provides pilots with instant access to all of the information they need for a safe flight.

This includes communications, navigation, digital moving maps and weapons.

On the left sits the hands on throttle and stick, which controls the critical flight and weapon system controls.

Above the multifunction display is the head-up display, or LiteHUD, which provides the operator with flight, navigation, sensor and weapon aiming information.

BAE strategically positioned this screen at eye level, allowing the pilot to see the data without looking away from what is in front of them.

And on the right is the mission data and recording system.

The new cockpit (pictured) features a range of technologies to help new pilots become acquainted with flying a military aircraft

The new cockpit (pictured) features a range of technologies to help new pilots become acquainted with flying a military aircraft

HISTORY OF THE HAWK 

BAE Systems' Hawk entered the Royal Air Force in 1976 and just three years later in 1979, the aircraft was adopted by the Red Arrows aerobatic team.

Shortly after, word caught on across the globe of Hawk's performance and capabilities – catching the attention of many other countries.

BAE Systems’ Hawk entered the Royal Air Force in 1976 and just three years later in 1979, the aircraft was adopted by the Red Arrows (pictured) aerobatic team

BAE Systems' Hawk entered the Royal Air Force in 1976 and just three years later in 1979, the aircraft was adopted by the Red Arrows (pictured) aerobatic team

After its success BAE followed it with more models – all of which were more improved than the previous craft.

The firm increased range, added more powerful engines and redesigned the wings and undercarriage.

As technology progressed BAE also included radar, forward-looking infrared, GPS and night vision technology.

In 1981, a derivative of the Hawk was selected by the United States Navy as their new trainer aircraft.

Sadly, in August 2011, a Red Arrows pilot was killed when his Hawk T1, a model built in the 1980s, crashed and died.

The tragedy following a display at the Bournemouth Air Festival, the inquest found 'G-force impairment' may have caused the pilot to lose control.

However, BAE Systems recovered from the event and by 2012, nearly 1,000 Hawks had been sold all over the globe.

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This area records data during the flight, allowing the new pilots to learn as they flow and can also view the footage on the ground to run 'what if scenarios'.

It also includes a redesigned wing that increases performance in areas such as turn rates, angles of attack and both take-off and landing.

The Advanced Hawk will help new pilots get ready for more technologies, dangerous environments and advanced capabilities as they progress in their careers

The Advanced Hawk will help new pilots get ready for more technologies, dangerous environments and advanced capabilities as they progress in their careers

BAE also increased the technology with more stores capability, a new set of defensive aids and a range of new flight systems.

Although the Hawk was specifically designed as a training aircraft, it is fully capable of being fly during live combat.

The upgraded cockpit (pictured) equipped with BAE Systems' LiteHUD and a new, large area display that introduces a new pilot training experience

The upgraded cockpit (pictured) equipped with BAE Systems' LiteHUD and a new, large area display that introduces a new pilot training experience

All of the upgrades were aimed at ensuring Hawk continues to provide the edge in fast jet pilot training, as well as offering increased operational utility.

And its maiden flight builds on its public debut at Aero India 2017 in Bangalore earlier this year.

'The successful first flight of the Advanced Hawk concept demonstrator is the latest step in the aircraft's development and marks a significant milestone in Hawk's capability upgrade,' said Steve Timms, Managing Director Defence Information, Training & Services at BAE Systems.

'We already have the world's leading advanced jet trainer and the new features in Advanced Hawk have been developed after listening to our customers' views on where fast jet pilot training will go in the future and how we ensure the Hawk continues to meet their requirements.

'By using this demonstrator aircraft we have highlighted to existing users of Hawk that many of the proposed features of an Advanced Hawk, such as the large area display and new wing, could be achievable as upgrades.'

The new cockpit is designed to record data during the flight, allowing the new pilots to learn as they fly and can also view the footage on the ground to run 'what if scenarios'

The new cockpit is designed to record data during the flight, allowing the new pilots to learn as they fly and can also view the footage on the ground to run 'what if scenarios'

 

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