Textron-Leonardo Unveil M-346N Carrier-Based Trainer Jet for U.S. Navy

Textron Aviation Defense and Italy’s Leonardo have jointly unveiled the Beechcraft M-346N, a new carrier-capable jet trainer designed for the U.S. Navy’s upcoming Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program.

The platform is intended to replace the T-45 Goshawk currently in service.

As reported by Textron Aviation, the M-346N is a twin-seat aircraft with a tandem cockpit, digital fly-by-wire flight controls, and modern avionics. It is powered by two Honeywell F124-GA-200 engines, offering speeds above 1,092 km/h and a flight ceiling of 13.7 km.

The cockpit includes multi-function displays, a HOTAS interface, a helmet-mounted display system, and an Auto-GCAS ground collision avoidance system—features aligned with current front-line fighter aircraft. The design enables full-spectrum pilot training for new-generation combat jets.

Textron also provides an integrated training ecosystem with the M-346N, including simulators, virtual trainers, mission planning tools, and adaptive software with artificial intelligence. This system is already in use through the International Flight Training School (IFTS), a joint program with the Italian Air Force training pilots from countries including the U.K., Germany, and Japan.

The U.S. Navy is expected to procure at least 145 aircraft through the UJTS program. A winner will likely be named by 2027.

Separately, Colombia has shown interest in acquiring the M-346FA light combat variant from Leonardo, indicating broader international demand for the aircraft line.