Textron and Leonardo Pitch Jet Trainer for Navy

Textron Aviation Defense LLC, a Textron Inc. company, announced the Beechcraft M-346N jet as its proposed solution for the U.S. Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. The announcement comes as the Navy prepares a Request for Proposals, following several Requests for Information.

The M-346N is based on the Leonardo-developed M-346 aircraft and is part of an integrated training system used by multiple air forces worldwide. Over 100 M-346 aircraft are currently in service, including at Italy’s International Flight Training School (IFTS).

Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo have signed a teaming agreement to meet UJTS requirements. The M-346N is being marketed as a capable platform to train pilots for both 4th and 5th generation aircraft.

"With our heritage deeply rooted in the strength and reliability of American manufacturing, the Beechcraft M-346N joins a proud lineup of aircraft built on 95 years of aviation excellence. The aircraft can be the cornerstone for the Navy’s future of undergraduate jet training, combining operationally-proven performance with cutting-edge technologies," said Travis Tyler, president and CEO of Textron Aviation Defense.