# Air Force Adds T-19A Trainers in Colorado

The U.S. Air Force accepted four T-19A Kestrel aerobatic trainers for the Air Force Academy in November 2026. The aircraft were acquired through a $3 million donation, with the Air Force adding about $400,000 for initial spares and support equipment; the service expects annual fleet sustainment to cost approximately $1 million. No open solicitation or contract award is identified, but the planned sustainment creates potential future demand for aircraft support, parts, and related services.

- The acquisition brings four two-seat, single-engine trainers into the Academy’s training fleet, with operations centered at Davis Airfield in Colorado Springs.
- The approximately $1 million annual sustainment estimate may be relevant to companies providing aircraft maintenance, parts, and support equipment, though no procurement opportunity or schedule has been announced.
- Contractors can use the disclosed sustainment need to assess their capabilities and potential fit for future Air Force support requirements; the article does not identify a solicitation or specific contracting vehicle.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 12, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Air Force (USAF)
- United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)
- 306th Flying Training Group (306th FTG)

### Vendors
- Game Aerospace Composites (Aircraft manufacturer)

### Key Quotes
> This aircraft will provide an opportunity to train our cadets in ways that were previously not possible.
> — Lt. Gen. Paul Moga, U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent

### Sources
- [Air Force unveils T-19A, a new aerobatic plane to train future pilots - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/11/air-force-debuts-new-t-19a-aerobatic-plane) - Breaking Defense