Akima Secures Major Air Force Contract for T-7A Red Hawk Training System
In a significant development for both the defense industry and Alaska, Akima, an Alaska Native Corporation, has successfully secured a lucrative $369 million contract from the U.S. Air Force. This contract, aimed at building an advanced maintenance training system for the T-7A Red Hawk, marks a notable expansion of Akima’s defense portfolio in Alabama.
The Details of the Contract
The awarded contract falls under the Training Systems Acquisition IV delivery order and is set to span a 7.5-year performance period, contingent upon the exercise of all options. As the prime contractor, Pinnacle Solutions, a subsidiary of Akima, will take the lead in developing a comprehensive training solution. This initiative will feature an integration of advanced training devices, smart classrooms, interactive multimedia instruction, as well as sustainment engineering and logistics support.
What is the T-7A Red Hawk?
The T-7A Red Hawk is a modern trainer aircraft designed to replace the aging T-38C Talon fleet. This transition represents a critical upgrade in training aircraft for the Air Force, allowing for enhanced pilot training capabilities. The T-7A Maintenance Training System aims to prepare maintenance crews for the Red Hawk by utilizing cutting-edge technology, ensuring that maintainers possess the necessary skills to support the aircraft efficiently.
Technological Innovations in Training
A key element of this training system will be Pinnacle’s VXT Core virtual training framework. This innovative system will employ high-fidelity models of the T-7A platform and its weapon systems, integrating virtual and augmented reality interfaces, along with haptic feedback devices. Such advancements promise to create an immersive training environment that enhances learning outcomes by engaging maintenance personnel in realistic, hands-on experiences.
Akima’s Commitment to Defense Capabilities
“This win highlights Akima’s ability to deliver sophisticated training and logistics capabilities at scale to meet the evolving mission needs of the U.S. Air Force,” emphasized Scott Rauer, president of Akima’s Facilities Solutions Group. He reiterated that Pinnacle’s extensive experience in delivering immersive and mission-ready training positions maintainers to confidently support the T-7A aircraft.
Program Leadership and Locations
The overall program will be led by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, which will focus its initial development efforts in Huntsville, Alabama, where Pinnacle Solutions is headquartered. The training systems developed under this contract will ultimately be deployed to a central facility located at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph in Texas, as well as to four unit maintenance training facilities across Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.
Collaborative Partnerships
Pinnacle Solutions will collaborate with a number of organizations to fulfill the contract, including Aero Simulation Inc., LSI Inc., Textron Systems, and Janus Research Group. As a part of their responsibilities, Pinnacle will also provide ongoing contractor logistics support and operate a training system support center post-deployment, ensuring long-term sustainability and operational effectiveness.
Akima’s Growing Presence in Huntsville
This contract further cements Akima’s burgeoning presence in Huntsville, a hub for defense and aerospace activities. In September, Akima expanded its footprint by opening a new 35,000-square-foot office aimed at enhancing support for various defense, aerospace, and technology sectors. The company is already engaged in other substantial defense contracts, including a $563 million project for facility support services at Redstone Arsenal awarded in 2024.
The Corporate Background
Akima, owned by the NANA Corporation, which represents over 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders from northwestern Alaska, employs approximately 10,000 individuals globally. Its standing is noteworthy, as it was ranked 31st on Washington Technology’s 2025 Top 100 list of government contractors, underlining its influence and capacity within the government contracting landscape.
Pinnacle Solutions: Expertise and Services
Pinnacle Solutions specializes in providing simulation and training solutions. The firm serves various components of the Department of Defense, Special Operations Forces, and international military clients, alongside educational institutions. This depth of expertise positions them well to deliver on the requirements of the T-7A Maintenance Training System contract, ensuring its success and alignment with quality and operational standards.
The collaboration between Akima and Pinnacle Solutions showcases not just a strong strategic partnership but also a commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force through innovative training technology and logistical support.
