Leonardo & Textron Propose M-346N for Next-Gen Naval Pilot Training

Naval Aviation’s Next-Gen Training Evolution

At Sea-Air-Space 2025, Leonardo and Textron Aviation Defense unveiled the M-346N Integrated Training System as a proposed solution for the U.S. Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program. This collaboration marks a critical step in modernizing naval pilot training, offering technology that bridges classroom instruction with real-world combat readiness. With the T-45 Goshawk fleet approaching retirement after three decades of service, the Navy seeks systems that reduce operational costs while enhancing tactical proficiency.

The M-346N isn’t just another trainer aircraft – it represents an ecosystem. Its Integrated Training System combines physical aircraft with virtual reality maintenance trainers and AI-driven simulation environments. For naval aviators who must master carrier landings and networked warfare tactics, this platform offers unprecedented fidelity in replicating both flight dynamics and battlefield scenarios.

Technical Specifications & Training Architecture

The M-346N’s twin Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofans deliver 6,280 lbs of thrust each, enabling 8.5G maneuvers crucial for dogfight training. Its fly-by-wire system replicates the flight characteristics of 5th-gen fighters like the F-35, allowing seamless transition for trainees. The cockpit features three 6×8-inch AMLCD displays and a Helmet-Mounted Display System projecting targeting data directly into the pilot’s visor.

Leonardo’s Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS) creates synthetic threats ranging from surface-to-air missiles to enemy fighters. During demonstrations at National Harbor, the Smart Chair simulator showed how trainees practice intercepting virtual Su-35s while avoiding simulated SAM sites. This LVC (Live-Virtual-Constructive) environment reduces reliance on costly live-fire exercises by 40% according to Textron’s operational data.

“The M-346 has achieved 98% availability across 150,000 flight hours in six air forces. That reliability is non-negotiable for carrier operations.” – Leonardo Training Systems White Paper

Strategic Implications for Naval Aviation

Unlike the T-45’s analog systems, the M-346N’s digital backbone enables over-the-air updates. When the Navy integrates new radar warnings or missile countermeasures into the F/A-18 fleet, trainers can receive corresponding software patches within 72 hours. This synchronicity ensures pilots train on systems identical to frontline aircraft.

The Maintenance VR Goggles displayed at Textron’s booth exemplify this integration. Using Microsoft HoloLens technology, technicians practice repairing the aircraft’s FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system through augmented reality overlays. Early adopters like the Italian Air Force report 30% faster maintenance turnaround times using this system.

Global Adoption & Future Roadmap

With 136 aircraft operational across nine countries, the M-346 platform has proven adaptable to diverse needs. Israel modified theirs for F-35 pilot training, while Poland uses them for MiG-29 transition courses. The proposed M-346N variant adds carrier landing configurations including reinforced landing gear and tailhook positioning optimized for Nimitz-class decks.

Leonardo’s roadmap includes integrating AI wingman capabilities by 2027, allowing solo trainees to practice formation flying with virtual allies. This aligns with the Navy’s Project Avenger initiative for manned-unmanned teaming. Combined with the aircraft’s 1,150 nautical mile range, future iterations could even serve as aggressor aircraft during fleet exercises.

Conclusion: Training Reimagined

The M-346N proposal arrives as naval aviation faces dual pressures – modernizing for near-peer conflicts while containing costs. By leveraging proven commercial VR technologies and open-architecture systems, this platform demonstrates how military training can evolve without compromising on realism or safety.

As Textron and Leonardo finalize their bid for the UJTS contract, the real winner may be the next generation of naval aviators. Those who cut their teeth on systems blending physical aircraft with digital battlegrounds will enter fleet service already acclimated to the complexities of multi-domain warfare.

FAQ

What makes the M-346N suitable for carrier training?
Reinforced landing gear, carrier-optimized flight control software, and simulated angled deck approaches in its training modules.

How does it reduce training costs?
The LVC system replaces 40% of live-flight hours with VR/AR training, saving fuel/maintenance costs while increasing scenario complexity.

Which nations currently operate M-346 variants?
Italy, Israel, Poland, Singapore, Greece, and Qatar with 136 aircraft total as of 2025.

Sources:
Military Embedded Systems,
The Aviationist,
Naval News