I expect any bid which has a Hawk derivative to be technically disqualified for inability to meet safety standards and the Adour’s poor performance in the US Navy’s T-45s.

The USAF probably wants it in the competition because it is cheap and would drive down the cost of more capable/expensive types, such as T-50.

That sounds a lot like wishful thinking, bordering inplausability.

AESAs are said to be significantly cheaper to operate, so indeed this has to be taken into account, although I don’t think a trainer would really need a high performance radar. We will see if they want a radar in the TX.

They dont. The KPP/KSA documents were publicaly released a year and a half ago.

KSA #5 Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) Training Capability

6.3.5.1 Radar. Simulated radar system capabilities, to include display, multiple target (up to 10) search, acquire and track a single target, and weapons envelope/launch/fly-out displays. It will be mechanized through hands on throttle and stick switchology (HOTAS).
6.3.5.2. Datalink. Simulated datalink that simulates exchanges o f basic intra- and inter-flight messages .
6.3.5.3. Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)/Defensive Management System (DMS). Simulated RWR/DMS system capabilities, to include display, multiple (up to 10 different targets simultaneously) threat depiction using F-35 type symbology (pre-programmed surface and air search, track and launch threats) up to 5 threats, and threat warning/launch event marking for debrief.
6.3.5.4. Situation Awareness Display. A situation awareness display that provides moving map, area and relative position orientation awareness (e.g., pre-planned threat envelopes, route depiction, etc.).
6.3.5.5. Debriefing. Shared audio and visual/video information with in flight recording systems for use with debriefing systems.
6.3.5.6. Display. Use a glass cockpit/multi-function display approach similar to that in the F-22/F-35 aircraft .

Here:
http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2012/10/usaf-releases-draft-t-x-kpps/

https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=399845681ea675ff09814d3e74c0d4f7&tab=core&_cview=0

An actual radar on the aircraft would amount to an upgrade to the KSA/KPP.

Cheers

Interesting news indeed. I did think the USAF might be tempted to write the requirements around a US design, but this does play into BAE/Northrop’s hands.

That said, didn’t BAE lose out in Poland partly down to costs?

It was more the oposite, it was not that the BAE was extremely expensive (it was in the midle) but the Alenia Aermachi offer was vastly inferior in costs over the other two competitors.
But the thing is, whatever aircraft is chosen, it will be built in the States, that levels the production costs; in this case the smaller aircraft, with the least thrust has an obvious advantage, on top of that there are hundreds of a very similar aircraft with the US Navy logo on it, the logistical advantage is also obvious.
It can go to any other airframe, but if the USAF is willing to water down the performance KPP´s in order to lower costs i am willing to bet that the Northrop chap responsable for the T/X offer is wearing a very bright smile on is face, the LM equivalent on the other side…