BAE, Saudi Arabia strike US$2.5b training package deal

Saudi Arabia has awarded BAE Systems a 1.6 billion pound ($2.5 billion) deal to supply Hawk jet trainers, Pilatus PC-21 turboprop and other training devices, the British company announced on May 23rd.

The centerpiece of the deal is the provision of 22 BAE Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers starting in 2016 and the supply of 55 PC-21 machines built by the Swiss manufacturer Pilatus. Deliveries of the advanced turboprop trainer are scheduled to commence in 2014.

The training package also includes 25 primary trainers, although no selection has yet been made. A BAE spokesman said the company was still in discussions with the Saudi Arabia about the purchase of an aircraft at a later date. (Source: defensenews.com)