Qarbon Aerospace Marks Major Milestone with First Forward Fuselage Delivery for Boeing T-7A Red Hawk
Qarbon Aerospace Inc., a leading manufacturer of medium to large complex composite components and assemblies, has reached an important milestone in its partnership with Boeing and the U.S. Air Force. The company announced the successful delivery of the first forward fuselage assembly for the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk, the next-generation advanced pilot training system designed to prepare future Air Force aviators.
The milestone was celebrated at Qarbon Aerospace’s Red Oak, Texas facility, where employees, executives, government leaders, and aerospace partners gathered to honor the achievement. The event featured prominent guests, including Boeing leadership, Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06), and representatives of the Vought Heritage Foundation. Their participation highlighted not only the technical achievement but also the deep legacy of aerospace manufacturing in North Texas, a history that Qarbon continues to build upon.
Carrying Forward a Century-Long Aerospace Legacy
Qarbon Aerospace’s role in the T-7A program is significant. The company is responsible for producing the forward fuselage, wing, and empennage assemblies, which are essential components of the advanced jet trainer. These assemblies are manufactured and integrated at Qarbon’s Red Oak facility, a site with a rich aerospace history dating back to the Vought era. Vought, a legendary name in aviation, contributed to generations of iconic aircraft for both military and commercial applications. Qarbon continues this proud tradition, combining precision engineering with cutting-edge composite technologies to support the future of aviation.
At the event, Qarbon leadership emphasized that the company’s contributions go beyond manufacturing. They reflect a long-standing commitment to excellence in safety, quality, and precision—values that have allowed Qarbon to play a central role in some of the aerospace industry’s most advanced programs.
Recognition from Leaders and Partners
Several key speakers addressed the audience, each underscoring the importance of the T-7A Red Hawk program and the role of Qarbon Aerospace in its success.
Congressman Jake Ellzey, who represents Texas’ 6th Congressional District and brings firsthand experience as a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot, spoke passionately about the program’s significance:
“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,” Ellzey said. “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.”
Charlisha “Charli” Greene, Vice President of Air Dominance Supply Chain at Boeing, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of the T-7A program in preparing the Air Force for the challenges of tomorrow.
“Preparing future fighter and bomber pilots for the rigors of combat in the most advanced crewed jets is a daunting task,” Greene said. “This Qarbon team is up to the challenge, and that is evident through the workmanship coming out of this facility.”
Mike Canario, Chief Executive Officer of Qarbon Aerospace, reinforced the idea that the milestone was about more than just a single aircraft part.
“Today is about more than a single part or program milestone,” Canario stated. “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.”
Building the Future of Air Force Training
The T-7A Red Hawk program represents a significant step forward in pilot training for the U.S. Air Force. Designed as an advanced training system, the aircraft provides a modern, adaptable platform that better prepares pilots for the complex missions they will face in future fighter and bomber aircraft. With its digital design approach, open architecture, and advanced performance, the Red Hawk is intended to serve as the backbone of U.S. Air Force pilot training for decades to come.
Qarbon Aerospace’s contributions ensure that the aircraft is built with the highest standards of safety, quality, and reliability. The forward fuselage, wing, and empennage assemblies manufactured in Red Oak are not only critical to the structural integrity of the aircraft but also serve as a symbol of American manufacturing strength and innovation.
A Celebration of People and Partnerships
The celebration at the Red Oak facility served as both a recognition of a milestone and a tribute to the people behind it. Employees who contributed their expertise to the fuselage assembly were honored for their dedication and craftsmanship. Boeing leadership expressed gratitude for Qarbon’s partnership, while government officials highlighted the program’s importance for national defense and local economic growth.
The event also underscored the value of collaboration across the aerospace sector. From Qarbon’s composite expertise to Boeing’s integration of advanced technologies and the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to preparing the next generation of pilots, the T-7A program demonstrates the power of partnership in achieving ambitious national goals.
