DUBAI (Reuters) -Boeing is close to announcing a partnership to bid for an international sales opportunity for its T-7 trainer, company executives said on Sunday, highlighting fast-growing demand for lightweight military training jets.

Reuters reported in July that Boeing and Sweden’s Saab were in talks with Britain’s BAE Systems on teaming up on a future replacement of the UK’s Hawk trainer.

Boeing and Saab have jointly developed the T-7 advanced trainer for the U.S. Air Force, while Britain has said it plans to replace its out-of-production Hawk fleet, part of which is instantly recognisable through its Red Arrows display team.

Asked at a briefing ahead of the Dubai Airshow whether the imminent partnership would address Britain’s trainer needs, Boeing’s CEO of Defense, Space & Securit

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