Wichita-based Textron Aviation Defense has launched a nationwide tour, showcasing the Beechcraft M-346N as a “ready-now” total solution for the U.S. Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program.
The aircraft set off from Beech Factory Airport following its assembly at Textron Aviation Defense’s headquarters in Wichita.
“Assembled in the United States and backed by Beechcraft’s 85-year legacy of training U.S. military pilots, the M-346N represents the next evolution in jet trainer capability,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense.
The Beechcraft M-346N is part of a proven integrated training system based on the original M-346 developed by Leonardo, which is currently training pilots for 4th and 5th generation air forces worldwide.
Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo entered into a teaming agreement to work together to meet the Navy’s requirements for its new jet trainer.
The Beechcraft M-346N offers adaptive AI-powered instruction and a Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) architecture that links aircraft, simulators and computer-generated forces in real time. The system also features Precision Landing Mode to prepare naval aviators for carrier-based operations.
With more than 100 M-346 aircraft produced by Leonardo in service and more than 150,000 flight hours logged, the platform services the rigorous training demands of 20 global users and counting.
The Beechcraft M-346N is a twin-engine, tandem-seat aircraft with fully digital flight controls and avionics, with a maximum cruise speed of near 680 miles per hour, and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet.
This plane follows a legacy of thousands of Beechcraft and Cessna Integrated Training Systems produced and missionized in America’s Heartland since WWII.