United States Proposes M-346N Jet Trainer for Navy Pilot Training

Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo formally offered the M-346N advanced jet trainer to the U.S. Navy on July 28, 2025, aiming to replace the aging T-45 Goshawk in the Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. The partnership brings together American manufacturing with proven design from Leonardo’s M-346 line.

Textron, headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, has partnered with Italy-based Leonardo to propose a trainer that meets the Navy’s current requirements through a ready-now solution. The M-346N features twin Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofan engines, fly-by-wire controls with quadruple redundancy, hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS) input, and automatic ground collision avoidance systems, aligning with modern pilot training and safety standards.

The aircraft supports cruise speeds over 590 knots, operates at ceilings up to 45,000 feet, and offers maneuverability ideal for fourth-and fifth-generation fighter transition training. Its elevated rear cockpit improves instructor visibility during critical phases of instruction, enhancing safety and situational awareness.

Leadership stresses the M-346N’s value in offering a complete integrated training ecosystem. Its embedded training system simulates sensors and weapons and enables Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) interoperability with simulators and computer-generated forces. These capabilities aim to reduce pilot training costs and risks while boosting mission readiness.

Officials highlight that over 100 M-346 aircraft already serve in training roles across countries such as Italy, Israel, Poland, and Singapore. More than 110,000 flight hours support global pilot pipelines. Tom Webster, vice president of Global Sales & Strategy at Textron Aviation Defense, notes the platform’s maturity and ability to meet U.S. Navy requirements with minimal adjustments.

The Navy contemplates acquiring some 145 new trainers under UJTS to replace its fleet of T-45 Goshawks, which have experienced structural fatigue, avionics issues, and logistical limitations. The M-346N offers a multi-engine alternative with reduced risk and faster entry into service while the Navy continues refining carrier approach training requirements.

Textron presents the M-346N as a low-risk contender, leveraging established global training systems to support rapid deployment. Its design anticipates future-proofing pilot instruction for transition into aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon.

As the Navy expects to issue a Request for Proposals in late 2025 or early 2026, proponents argue that the M-346N integrated training system offers operational reliability, robust safety features, and rapid pilot throughput. The outcome of the forthcoming competition could significantly influence U.S. Navy pilot training capabilities for years to come.