WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The tested airplane is one of first two T-X aircraft that Boeing and Saab revealed in September. The second is currently in ground testing and expected to fly in early 2017.
"With one engine, twin tails, stadium seating and an advanced cockpit with embedded training, the Boeing T-X is more affordable and flexible than older, existing aircraft," the release stated on Tuesday.
Pilots trained for the test flight using the Boeing T-X ground-based training and simulation system, the release also noted.
Initial operating capability is planned for 2024, according to the release.
Boeing is competing with Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and others for an Air Force contract worth anywhere from $8 to $10 billion.
In November Lockheed Martin's entry into the competition, the T-50A, made its first successful test flight.
