Overview

• The twin-engine, two-seat Freedom Trainer debuts as a clean-sheet entrant for the Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System to replace the T-45 Goshawk.
• SNC says the Williams FJ44-powered jet features a 16,000-hour airframe and about 40% lower engine-related costs than current Navy trainers, with promotional materials citing a 40% lifecycle cost reduction versus the T-45.
• The company highlights carrier touch-and-goes and field carrier landing practice to touchdown, even though the Navy now requires only FCLP to wave-off and no actual carrier landings for UJTS aircraft.
• SNC pledges to provide the Navy the design and data package, promotes an open architecture, and partners with Red 6 to embed the ATARS augmented-reality training system.
• The bid enters a field that includes Boeing’s T-7A, Lockheed/KAI’s T-50, and Textron/Leonardo’s M-346N, with a final RFP expected by December 2025 and a contract award planned for January 2027.