Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo have entered into a teaming agreement to work together to meet the US Navy’s requirements for its new jet trainer.
The US Navy has issued multiple Requests for Information (RFIs) in anticipation of a forthcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new aircraft to be procured under the program. The companies proposed Beechcraft M-346N jet as a “ready-now” solution for the US Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. The unit is based on the original M-346 aircraft developed by Leonardo.
“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,” said Travis Tyler , president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense.
“The aircraft can be the cornerstone for the Navy’s future of undergraduate jet training, combining operationally-proven performance with cutting-edge technologies.”
The Beechcraft M-346N is equipped with a fly-by-wire flight control system with quadruple redundancy. Fitted with two Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofan engines, it delivers a maximum cruise speed of more than 590 knots and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet. The cockpit is outfitted with advanced interfaces such as a head-up display, large area display, HOTAS controls, and safety innovations like the Auto-GCAS.
The comprehensive M-346N integrated training ecosystem, which has been validated and continuously improved through the global operational experience of the M-346 integrated training system, is poised to provide the Navy with a complete solution that enhances student readiness and operational effectiveness, it was concluded.