T-7A RED HAWK COMPLETES FINAL HIGH-SPEED SLED TEST TO CERTIFY ESCAPE SYSTEM

RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Nov. 8 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news release:

The T-7 Program Office has executed the final high-speed sled test for the T-7A Red Hawk escape system. This achievement represents a critical milestone in certifying the next-generation trainer's aircrew safety systems.

Conducted by the 846th Test Squadron at the Holloman High Speed Test Track at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, on Oct. 7, 2026, the test simulated an ejection scenario at 550 knots effective airspeed.

The primary objective was to validate critical safety enhancements, specifically a redesigned canopy fracturing system pattern and a modernized ejection seat sequencer.

The test incorporated an anthro...