Airbus Spain AFJT (Airbus Future Jet Trainer)

History of the Airbus Spain AFJT (Airbus Future Jet Trainer)

The Airbus Future Jet Trainer (AFJT) is a modern light jet aircraft developed by Airbus Spain. Originally designed to replace aging Spanish Air Force training planes, it has expanded its market reach to cater to other air forces seeking a contemporary training solution. The AFJT program has been in development since 2017 and is comparable to other advanced jet trainers like the Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Eagle and Korean KAI T-50 Golden Eagle.

The AFJT features tandem seating, a sleek design with a clear, high-visibility canopy, and advanced fly-by-wire controls. It is powered by a turbofan engine capable of simulating transonic flight. Additionally, it incorporates a dual air intake system for improved performance and may have light attack capabilities for defense purposes. The design has received local approval in Spain for its potential economic and military benefits.

If development proceeds as planned, the AFJT is expected to make its first flight in 2025, with the first deliveries to customers around 2027. It aims to compete in the global advanced jet trainer market, offering a modern alternative to existing options. The AFJT signifies a significant step in upgrading training aircraft and enhancing the capabilities of future pilots.

Specification

BASICS

Years of Service: 2028

Origins: Spain

Status: Under development

Crew: 2

Production: 0

Manufacturer: Airbus Spain - Spain

Roles

X-Plane (development, prototype, tech demo)

Aircraft designed for prototyping, technology demonstration, or research/data collection.

Education (General)

Develop the ability to become a dedicated student pilot instructor (usually under the supervision of an instructor).

Training (Advanced)

A special advanced training platform for student pilots after completing basic flight training.

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 45.9 feet (14.00m)

Width/span: 32.8 feet (10.00m)

Height: 13.1 ft (4.00m)

Cured weight: 7,055 lbs (3,200 kg)

MTOW: 12,125 lbs (5,500 kg)

Wgt Difference: +5,071 lbs (+2,300 kg)

Performance

Installed: 1 x Eurojet EJ200 or Dassault Safran M88 afterburner turbofan, thrust unknown.

Maximum speed: 746 mph (1,200 kph | 648 kts)

Ceiling: 49,213 ft (15,000 m | 9 mi)

Range: 1,118 mi (1,800 km | 3,334 nm)

Rate-of-Climb: 30,000 ft/min (9,144 m/min)