Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico — The U.S. Air Force has completed the final high-speed sled test of the T-7A Red Hawk’s escape system, marking an important step toward qualifying the aircraft’s aircrew safety equipment.
The 846th Test Squadron conducted the test on October 7, 2026, at the Holloman High Speed Test Track in New Mexico. The test simulated an ejection scenario at an effective airspeed of 550 knots and evaluated two major upgrades: a redesigned canopy-fracturing pattern and a modernized ejection seat sequencer.
Engineers used an anthropomorphic test device representing the lightest occupant in the pilot candidate range. This allowed the team to assess whether the escape system could adequately protect smaller aircrew members during an emergency ejection.
An initial review of high-speed video showed that the upgraded sequencer performed as designed. The revised timing kept the stabilizing drogue parachute deployed for a longer period, helping stabilize the seat as it separated from the aircraft. According to the Air Force, this adjustment reduces peak loads on the occupant’s neck and spine, supporting a smoother descent.
“Completing this final sled test represents a major achievement in our rigorous qualification process,” said Col. Robert Volesky, the T-7A system program manager at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.
Although the initial video assessment was positive, engineers are still reviewing seat trajectory, acceleration and biometric sensor data collected from the test dummy. The October 7 test completed the planned series of static and dynamic sled tests supporting final escape-system qualification.
T-7A Red Hawk Program
Developed by Boeing and Saab, the T-7A Red Hawk is the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation advanced pilot training aircraft. The program is intended to replace the service’s ageing T-38C Talon fleet.
The Air Force plans to acquire 351 T-7A aircraft along with associated Ground Based Training Systems. The integrated training programme is designed to prepare future pilots and weapon systems officers for operating fourth-, fifth- and emerging sixth-generation fighters and bombers.
Low-rate production has begun, with the Air Force targeting initial operational capability in 2027. Completing the escape-system qualification process remains an important step toward wider operational use of the aircraft.
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