GD, Alenia Aermacchi To Jointly Compete In USAF’s T-X Trainer Program

General Dynamics and Alenia Aermacchi announced today the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) to join forces and compete for the U.S. Air Force's T-X trainer program, which will replace aging T-38 trainer jets and related training systems. 

Together, the team will offer a fully integrated advanced pilot training system built around the Alenia Aermacchi T-100, a market variant of the company's established M-346 military aircraft trainer. 

As the prime contractor, General Dynamics will bring its proven experience in systems integration and sub-contract management to deliver an Advanced Pilot Training (APT) Family of Systems (FoS) consisting of aircraft, flight simulation devices, multi-media classrooms and logistics support.

The T-100 Integrated Training System will incorporate any unique U.S. Air Force requirements and will be built in the United States with an emphasis on United States-made components and equipment, according to the statement.

Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 is an advanced jet trainer that is currently training the world's air forces to operate fourth and fifth generation air-combat aircraft. Currently in production for international customers including the Israeli, Italian and Singaporean Air Forces, the M-346 has also been selected by the United Arab Emirates as their advanced aircraft trainer. 

Giuseppe Giordo, chief executive officer for Alenia Aermacchi, said, "This LOI brings together the world's best and most efficient pilot training system in the T-100 and a leading U.S. prime defense contractor in General Dynamics”.