Training and Workforce
Textron Unveils M-346N Jet Trainer for U.S. Navy Bid
U.S./Italian partnership will compete with Boeing’s T-7A and Lockheed Martin T-50A
Textron Aviation Defense Leonardo M-346N jet trainer
Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo confirmed details about their M-346N jet training aircraft. © Textron/Leonardo

Textron Aviation Defense has unveiled the Beechcraft M-346N it intends to bid for the U.S. Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. On Monday, the Wichita-based manufacturer confirmed that, with its European partner Leonardo (manufacturer of the M-346 light jet), it is engaging with U.S. Navy requests for information as it prepares for an anticipated request for proposal.

Boeing and Lockheed Martin are also expected to compete for the contest to replace the current T-45 Goshawks. Lockheed Martin is teamed with Korean Aerospace Industries to pitch the T-50A jet, while Boeing will offer its T-7A Red Hawk.