RED OAK, Texas—Qarbon Aerospace Inc. reported that it delivered the first forward fuselage assembly for the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk, the U.S. Air Force’s next generation advanced pilot training system. The company, a manufacturer of medium-to-large complex composite components and assemblies, builds the forward fuselage, wing, and empennage assemblies of the T-7A.
“These complex structures are assembled at the Red Oak facility with the same focus on safety, quality, and precision that has long defined Qarbon’s contributions to aerospace,” according to a release from Qarbon Aerospace.
“Today is about more than a single part or program milestone,” said Mike Canario, chief executive officer of Qarbon Aerospace, at an event celebrating the milestone. “It represents the incredible work of our people, the strength of our partnership with Boeing, and the continuation of a proud legacy of building some of the world’s most iconic aircraft. The T-7A Red Hawk is shaping the future of pilot training, and we are honored that Qarbon is part of this important mission.”
The milestone underscored the importance of the T-7A Red Hawk program and Qarbon’s role in supporting the U.S. Air Force as it prepares the next generation of pilots dedicated to protecting the nation, according to Qarbon.
“The T-7A Red Hawk will prepare the next generation of Air Force pilots to carry out their missions, and it’s being built right here in Red Oak,” stated Congressman Jake Ellzey, who represents Texas’s 6th District and is a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot. “I am proud of the hardworking men and women at Qarbon Aerospace whose skill and dedication make milestones like today possible. This is not just about building airplanes. It’s about securing America’s future, strengthening our defense, and continuing a proud legacy of aviation right here in our backyard.”
Qarbon Aerospace, headquartered in Red Oak, is a provider of large, complex composite and metallic structural components and assemblies, such as fuselages, wings, flight control surfaces, and engine nacelles and components. The company operates nearly two million square feet of factory space across three facilities located in Red Oak; Milledgeville, Georgia; and Rayong, Thailand.
“Preparing future fighter and bomber pilots for the rigors of combat in the most advanced crewed jets is a daunting task,” said Boeing Vice President of Air Dominance Supply Chain Charlisha “Charli” Greene, in a statement. “This Qarbon team is up to the challenge, and that is evident through the workmanship coming out of this facility.”