The story
British advanced jet trainer in service since 1976 — operated by the RAF, the U.S. Navy (as the T-45 Goshawk), and a dozen other air forces. The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team — the Red Arrows — fly nine of them in formation displays around the world.
The U.S. Navy's T-45 Goshawk is a Hawk strengthened for carrier landings; Navy student pilots have trained on it since 1994.
Quick answers
How do you identify a Hawk?
A small, low-winged jet with a tandem bubble canopy and a single swept fin. RAF trainers are gloss black and easy to call; nine in tight formation trailing smoke is the Red Arrows.
What does a Hawk sound like?
One Adour turbofan, no afterburner: a clean, whistling rush. At an airshow it is the sound of nine of them at once in Red Arrows red.
How many people does the Hawk carry?
Typical configuration: Student + instructor.
When did the Hawk first fly?
Its first flight was in 1974.
How many Hawks have been built?
1,000+ built.
How rare is a Hawk in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first Hawk catch is worth 250 points.
