Textron Aviation Defense launches U.S. tour to present Beechcraft M-346N jet trainer

The Beechcraft M-346N is part of a proven integrated training system based on the original M-346 developed by Leonardo. This system is currently used to train pilots for 4th and 5th generation air forces worldwide.

“Assembled in the United States and backed by Beechcraft’s 85-year legacy of training U.S. military pilots, the M-346N represents the next evolution in jet trainer capability,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “This platform is operationally proven and ready to deliver a comprehensive and advanced training solution to the U.S. Navy today.”

Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo have signed a teaming agreement to address the Navy’s requirements for its new jet trainer. The U.S. Navy has issued several Requests for Information and is preparing a Request for Proposals for the UJTS programme.

The Beechcraft M-346N includes a training ecosystem with high-fidelity ground-based devices, adaptive AI-powered instruction and a Live-Virtual-Constructive architecture linking aircraft, simulators and computer-generated forces in real time. It also features Precision Landing Mode to prepare naval aviators for carrier-based operations.

More than 100 M-346 aircraft built by Leonardo are in service worldwide, with over 150,000 flight hours logged. The aircraft has demonstrated strong performance and reliability, reducing training risk and accelerating pilot readiness for 20 global users.

The twin-engine Beechcraft M-346N is fitted with two Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofan engines and equipped with fly-by-wire controls, digital avionics and safety systems such as the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System. Its aerodynamic design provides manoeuvrability and energy management, while the raised rear cockpit improves instructor visibility in all flight phases.