U.S. Navy Begins Multi-Engine Trainer Replacement Program | Aviation International News

U.S. Navy Begins Multi-Engine Trainer Replacement Program

The new T-54A twin turboprop aircraft is based on the King Air 260, and will replace the T-44C, an earlier King Air derivative.

Beechcraft T-44C — The T-44C has performed multi-engine training duties with TAW-4 at Corpus Christi since 1980. The type will begin to be replaced by the T-54A from 2024. (Photo: U.S. Navy)

By David Donald • Contributor - UK

January 28, 2023

U.S. Naval Air Systems Command has awarded a single-source contract to Textron Aviation for 10 Beechcraft T-54A aircraft to fulfil its requirement for a Multi-Engine Training System (METS) aircraft. The new aircraft—which are based on the commercial King Air 260 model—are part of a $113.1 million contract that also includes support equipment, spares and training. Ultimately the Navy intends to acquire up to 64 T-54As in a deal that could be worth $677.2 million. They are scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2026.

The T-54A twin turboprops will be used for training Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard pilots destined to fly what the service terms “non-centerline thrust” aircraft, such as the C-130 Hercules, P-8 Poseidon, E-2 Hawkeye, E-6 Mercury, and V-22 Osprey. They will be used to teach students advanced instrument flying and asymmetric engine handling.

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