Boeing calls on Collins for Red Hawk navigation receivers

Collins is already responsible for a substantial number of systems on the T-7A Red Hawk trainer, and now adds a receiver which brings VOR, ILS, glideslope and marker beacon together into a single, space-saving product.

Collins Aerospace Systems, has been selected by Boeing to provide its NAV-4500 navigation receivers for the T-7A Red Hawk, the U.S. Air Force's new advanced pilot training system in development by both Boeing and Saab.

This award builds on previously announced Collins Aerospace positions on the T-7A, including its ACES 5 ejection seat; the platform's fully integrated landing gear system; various power and controls components, including the aircraft's Power Take Off (PTO) shaft, Auxiliary Power Engine Control Unit, engine start system and Main Electric Power Generation System; as well as air data, ice detection and total air temperature sensors.

By selecting the NAV-4500, Boeing brings Collins Aerospace's commercial technology proven over multiple generations of aircraft to its T-7A program. These navigation receivers package the VHF Omnidirectional Range and Instrument Landing System radio signals, glideslope and marker beacon into a single, space-saving product designed for simple and flexible installation via a remote mount.

"The NAV-4500 will provide the T-7A with proven technology in the military operating environment, while offering industry-leading size, weight and power resulting from the system's commercial baseline," says Dave Schreck, vice president and general manager of Military Avionics and Helicopters at Collins Aerospace. "We are proud to bring a number of solutions from across Collins Aerospace to support both Boeing and the USAF on their next-generation advanced pilot training system."