Textron links up with Leonardo on US Navy’s new jet trainer

August 8, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

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.