April 4, 2010:
Four years ago Britain ordered another 28 Hawk jet trainers, and these new Mk 128 models have proved worth the expense (about $30 million each). That's because the Mk 128 contains advanced cockpit controls and instruments, making it very similar to the jet fighters trainees will soon be expected to master.
The Hawk advanced jet trainers are the most successful Western aircraft of this type, at least in terms of sales (over 900 have been sold). The US Navy uses the Hawk, along with 16 other nations. The nine ton aircraft are used to train pilots who will eventually fly jet fighters. The Hawk can also be armed and used for ground attack.