Overview

• The twin‑engine M-346N departed Beech Factory Airport in Wichita on September 16 and was tracked at McConnell Air Force Base on September 17.
• Textron says the aircraft is assembled in the United States and is offered under a teaming agreement with Leonardo, which developed the original M-346.
• The trainer is presented with an integrated ecosystem that includes AI-powered adaptive instruction and Live‑Virtual‑Constructive networking linking simulators, live aircraft, and synthetic forces.
• Features highlighted for naval training include Precision Landing Mode, quadruple‑redundant fly‑by‑wire controls, and dual cockpits with advanced displays.
• The Navy has issued RFIs for the UJTS replacement of the T‑45, an RFP is expected soon, a contract award is projected for 2027, and rivals include Boeing’s T‑7, Lockheed Martin/KAI’s TF‑50N, and SNC’s Freedom jet.