T-38 Operational System Development
Abstract
The T-38 RDT&E budget is focused on modifications needed to overcome part obsolescence, aging of critical components, emerging safety concerns, and cybersecurity risks. Operational Flight Program (OFP) block upgrades incorporate software improvements for the aircraft and aircrew training devices (ATDs) to address flight safety issues, and to comply with new capabilities mandated by Department of Defense, Federal Aviation Administration, or National Airspace System. RDT&E include but are not limited to the following: RDT&E requirements for the T-38C fleet are summarized below in the Terminal Avionics Replacement Program (TARP). This effort includes both RDT&E and Procurement funding to replace aging and obsolete avionics components that can no longer be repaired. Planned components include, but are not limited to, the Electronic Engine Display (EED), Multi-Function Display (MFD), Video Data Transfer Unit (VDTU), and Head-Up Display Camera (HUDC). Failure to fund these efforts will result in fleet-wide T-38C non-serviceability starting in Apr 2026. RDT&E requirements for the T-38A/B fleet are summarized below in the Low-cost Avionics Modernization Program (LAMP). LAMP addresses high failure rates in T-38A/B navigation system components, which are currently causing a safety risk to pilot spatial orientation. Flight restrictions associated with this risk are impacting F-22, U-2, and B-2 readiness. Planned component replacements include, but are not limited to, the Attitude Director Indicator and the Horizontal Situation Indicator. Failure to fund this effort will result in ongoing safety risk for the T-38A/B fleet, and increased impact to F-22, U-2, and B-2 readiness. The T-38 Studies and Development effort captures ongoing and emerging RDT&E requirements, to include budget for flight test, OFP updates, and emerging obsolescence or safety issues. Additional revisions may occur under this effort. Failure to fund these efforts will prevent the T-38 program from rapidly responding to emerging RDT&E requirements. Current requirements in work include but are not limited to, Block 11, Speed Brake, Canopy Open Warning, Lower Beacon Light, Landing Taxi Light, Emergency Locator Transmitter, Air Speed Indicator, Control of Both Radios, and Electronic Flight Bag USB Power Supply. This requirement supports performance of a full financial audit as required by title 10 U.S.C. Chapter 9A, Sec 240-D. This program element may include necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability. The use of such programs funds would be in addition to the civilian pay expenses budgeted in program elements 0605827F, 0605828F, 0605829F, 0605831F, 0605832F, 0605833F, 0605898F, and 0606398F. In FY 2023 $0.000 million was expended for civilian pay expenses in this program element, and in FY 2024 $0.000 million is forecast for civilian pay expenses in this program element.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 676037_0604233F_7_3600_PB_2025
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