T-100 training jet awaits final Air Force approval before production begins.
Raytheon has a long history of engineering for the military, responsible for manufacturing everything from optics to power modules for the still in development railgun.
In a recent project for the U.S. Air Force, the company has developed a training system to prepare pilots for the next generation of fighters—and it’s chosen a site in Meridian, Mississippi to build it.
“Our process determined that the best location for building the T-100 is Meridian,” said Rick Yuse, president of Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS).
“It provides the right blend of infrastructure, proximity to our customers, government support and a talent base that’s ready for the high tech jobs critical to our success.”
Raytheon SAS already has an existing manufacturing facility in Mississippi, which has worked with the government on a number of defense contracts.
“Mississippi’s existing partnership with Raytheon is one reason we are a global leader in advanced manufacturing for the defense industry,” said Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant.
“With a firm understanding of the significance of the advanced pilot training mission, we are excited about the possibility of expanding that partnership and creating hundreds of new, high-paying jobs supporting our brave men and women who serve this country.”
Assuming the Air Force approves the company’s proposal for the Advanced Pilot Training program, Raytheon would establish a final assembly and check-out facility at a site it has chosen in Meridian.
The T-100 Integrated Air Training System is based on the Aermacchi M-346, and includes built-in systems to simulate combat, and advanced cockpit and avionics emulators.
The T-100 is designed to go beyond the advanced training aircraft by linking to a ground-based simulator, allowing a wingman to accompany a pilot from the ground.
For more information, visit the Raytheon website or check out the T-100 360 Experience for Google Cardboard.
