Defense & Military
REGENT and Fairlead Advance US Seaglider Technology for Maritime Markets
REGENT and Fairlead partner to deploy advanced all-electric seagliders for commercial and defense applications, supporting US maritime growth.
Strategic Partnership Between REGENT and Fairlead: Advancing American Seaglider Technology for Defense and Commercial Applications
The partnership between REGENT Craft and Fairlead Integrated marks a pivotal moment in American maritime innovation. REGENT, a Rhode Island-based developer of all-electric seagliders, and Fairlead, a Virginia-based maritime engineering and manufacturing firm, have joined forces to accelerate seaglider vessel deployment and to expand advanced U.S. maritime capabilities. This collaboration aligns with recent policy shifts, notably President Trump’s Executive Order 14269, which prioritizes restoring America’s maritime dominance in response to global competition, especially from China. The partnership not only addresses national security and defense needs but also lays the groundwork for scaling commercial seaglider operations across diverse markets.
With REGENT’s global order book exceeding $9 billion and the successful sea trials of its full-scale crewed seaglider prototype, this alliance arrives at a crucial juncture for the maritime and defense industries. Both companies bring complementary strengths: REGENT’s innovative seaglider technology and Fairlead’s deep shipbuilding expertise. Together, they are poised to redefine coastal transportation and contested logistics, providing solutions for both civilian and military applications.
The significance of this partnership extends beyond technology and manufacturing. It represents a strategic response to evolving transportation needs, environmental concerns, and the imperative for domestic industrial revitalization. Through this collaboration, REGENT and Fairlead are not only advancing technological frontiers but also contributing to economic growth, job creation, and American competitiveness on the global stage.
Background and Company Foundations
REGENT Craft, established in 2020 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, has rapidly emerged as a leader in all-electric seaglider development. Its flagship product, the Viceroy seaglider, is a 55-foot-long, 65-foot-wingspan vessel capable of carrying 12 passengers at speeds up to 180 mph over a range of 180 miles. The Viceroy operates in three modes: as a boat, as a hydrofoiling vessel, and as a wing-in-ground effect craft flying just above the water’s surface. This versatility allows it to combine the speed of aircraft with the flexibility of boats, targeting coastal transport markets where traditional modes face limitations.
REGENT’s technological journey began with successful quarter-scale prototype flights in 2022, culminating in the March 2025 launch of the full-scale prototype, “Paladin.” The first human-crewed sea trials in Narragansett Bay marked a historic milestone, validating the viability of seaglider technology for both commercial and defense applications.
Fairlead Integrated, with roots tracing back to 1984, brings decades of experience in maritime engineering, precision manufacturing, and shipboard systems integration. Based in Portsmouth, Virginia, Fairlead has contributed to major U.S. naval platforms, including aircraft carriers and submarines. Its expertise in modular shipbuilding, electrical systems, and mission-critical fabrication positions it as an ideal manufacturing partner for REGENT’s ambitious production goals.
Technology and Performance Specifications
The Viceroy seaglider is a technological leap in maritime mobility. Its all-electric propulsion system, powered by advanced batteries, enables high-speed, zero-emission travel over water. The wing-in-ground effect operation leverages the aerodynamic phenomenon of increased lift and reduced drag when flying close to the water’s surface. This allows the seaglider to achieve aircraft-like speeds while maintaining the operational flexibility of a boat.
The vessel’s hydrofoil system enables smooth transitions between floating, foiling, and flying modes. Distributed electric motors provide redundancy and optimize thrust, while advanced flight control systems support both piloted and autonomous operations. REGENT’s design also emphasizes safety, with redundant controls and emergency protocols informed by both maritime and aviation standards.
Battery technology is a key enabler, currently supporting a 180-mile range. REGENT’s roadmap includes hybrid-electric variants that could extend this range to nearly 1,000 miles, broadening the spectrum of viable routes and applications. The modular battery design allows for rapid recharging and replacement, supporting high-frequency operations essential for commercial viability.
“The successful sea trials of Paladin mark the first time a human-crewed seaglider has operated at full scale, validating the promise of wing-in-ground effect technology for modern transportation.”
Market Demand and Commercial Orders
REGENT’s order book, valued at over $9 billion, is a testament to the strong market demand for seaglider technology. Customers span airlines, ferry operators, and government agencies. Mesa Airlines, for example, has ordered 200 seagliders to serve regional routes, integrating the vessels into its existing operations and exploring new city-center connections. UrbanLink Air Mobility, a Miami-based advanced air mobility operator, has expanded its order to 47 seagliders, targeting high-frequency service across South Florida and Puerto Rico.
International interest is evident in Japan Airlines’ partnership with REGENT, which includes feasibility studies and planned demonstration flights. Southern Airways Express has committed to 20 seagliders for U.S. East Coast operations, aiming for service launch as early as late 2025. In the Middle East, REGENT’s joint venture with the United Arab Emirates’ Strategic Development Fund supports regional manufacturing, maintenance, and training, further expanding the global footprint.
These commercial partnerships validate the seaglider’s appeal for high-density urban corridors, regional connectivity, and markets constrained by traditional infrastructure. The technology’s promise of sustainable, high-speed, and flexible transport is resonating with operators seeking to address both passenger and cargo needs.
Defense Applications and U.S. Maritime Strategy
REGENT Defense, launched in July 2025, adapts seaglider technology for military use. The U.S. Marine Corps has partnered with REGENT to explore applications in distributed maritime operations, awarding a $10 million contract to validate seaglider roles in logistics, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and launched effects missions. The Marine Corps’ interest stems from the need for high-speed, low-signature transport in contested environments where helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft face increasing threats.
The defense variant of the Viceroy maintains commercial performance but incorporates modifications for survivability and mission flexibility. With a payload capacity of 3,500 pounds and seating for 12, the defense seaglider supports both cargo and personnel transport. Unmanned variants, such as the quarter-scale Squire, offer autonomous operations for reconnaissance and communications, aligning with broader military trends toward unmanned systems.
Beyond the Marine Corps, REGENT collaborates with Special Operations Command and the U.S. Coast Guard Research and Development Center. These partnerships expand the scope of defense applications to search and rescue, special operations, and distributed logistics, validating the technology’s versatility for a range of mission profiles.
“The seaglider’s ability to operate above sonar and below radar, combined with runway independence, addresses critical gaps in current military logistics and operational flexibility.”
Manufacturing and Regulatory Progress
REGENT’s manufacturing strategy is anchored by a new 255,000-square-foot facility in Rhode Island, expected to come online in 2026. Fairlead’s integration into the manufacturing ecosystem brings established shipbuilding processes, supply chain relationships, and advanced fabrication capabilities. This partnership enables REGENT to scale production rapidly, meeting the demands of its growing order book.
Quality control and certification are central to REGENT’s approach. The company works with the U.S. Coast Guard for maritime certification and with Lloyd’s Register for international classification. The Coast Guard has already approved REGENT’s Navigation Safety Risk Assessment, allowing human testing in Narragansett Bay. These regulatory milestones are critical for commercial launch, targeted for 2027.
Internationally, REGENT coordinates with regulators in key markets, such as Japan, to establish operating frameworks for seaglider deployment. The company’s proactive regulatory engagement supports global market access and builds confidence among customers and authorities alike.
Strategic and Economic Implications
The REGENT-Fairlead partnership is emblematic of broader trends in American industrial policy and global transportation. Executive Order 14269 underscores the urgency of revitalizing domestic shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing. The United States currently produces less than one percent of the world’s commercial ships, compared to China’s dominant share. Innovative technologies like seagliders offer a way to leapfrog traditional shipbuilding and establish new market categories where the U.S. can lead.
Economically, REGENT’s success has attracted over $90 million in investment from a diverse group of backers, including major airlines and defense industry leaders. The partnership is expected to create high-technology manufacturing jobs and stimulate supply chain development across multiple sectors. International collaborations further enhance export potential, supporting a positive trade balance and reinforcing American leadership in emerging transportation technologies.
The global gliders market, which includes wing-in-ground effect vehicles, is projected to reach $2.23 billion by 2033, with North America holding the largest share. This growth is driven by urbanization, sustainability initiatives, and the need for efficient coastal transportation. Seagliders, with their unique blend of speed, flexibility, and environmental benefits, are well positioned to capture a significant portion of this expanding market.
“By combining innovative technology with advanced manufacturing, the REGENT-Fairlead partnership is not only meeting current market demand but also creating new opportunities for American industry and global mobility.”
Conclusion
The alliance between REGENT Craft and Fairlead Integrated represents a transformative step in the evolution of maritime and defense transportation. By merging cutting-edge seaglider technology with proven shipbuilding expertise, the partnership is poised to deliver scalable solutions for both commercial and military markets. The timing, aligned with national policy initiatives, amplifies its impact on American industrial competitiveness and strategic readiness.
Looking ahead, the partnership’s focus on technological advancement, manufacturing scaling, and international market development positions it for sustained growth. As certification progresses and production ramps up, seagliders are set to become a cornerstone of future coastal transportation and defense logistics, reinforcing America’s role as a global leader in innovative mobility solutions.
FAQ
What is a seaglider and how does it work?
A seaglider is an all-electric wing-in-ground effect vehicle designed to operate exclusively over water. It combines the speed of an aircraft with the flexibility of a boat, using hydrofoils and aerodynamic lift to travel just above the water’s surface.
What are the main benefits of seaglider technology?
Seagliders offer high-speed, zero-emission coastal transportation, reduced noise, low operational signatures for defense applications, and the ability to connect city centers without traditional runways or ports.
When will REGENT’s seagliders enter commercial service?
REGENT targets commercial service entry in 2027, following successful sea trials, certification, and manufacturing ramp-up.
How does the REGENT-Fairlead partnership support U.S. maritime strategy?
The partnership leverages domestic manufacturing and advanced technology to revitalize American shipbuilding, address national security needs, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Are there defense applications for seagliders?
Yes, the U.S. Marine Corps and other agencies are exploring seaglider applications for contested logistics, distributed operations, and unmanned missions, supported by dedicated defense variants of the technology.
Sources: REGENT Craft News, Fairlead Integrated
Photo Credit: Regent
Defense & Military
L3Harris AERIS X AEW&C Aircraft Advances Allied Defense Capabilities
L3Harris launches AERIS X AEW&C aircraft with advanced radar and high-altitude performance, securing major international contracts.
This article is based on an official press release and editorial content from L3Harris Technologies.
As global Air-Forces reassess their airborne surveillance fleets, a significant shift is underway from traditional, large-platform aircraft to smaller, highly missionized business jets. Leading this transition is L3Harris Technologies, which has officially positioned its AERIS X Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft as a next-generation solution for allied homeland defense. According to a recent company editorial release, the platform is designed to replace aging and expensive legacy surveillance aircraft with a more agile, cost-effective alternative.
The AERIS X platform is marketed as an immediate solution for the current decade, addressing urgent capability gaps exposed by modern conflicts. With the proliferation of drones, low-observable threats, and advanced missile systems, militaries are increasingly demanding persistent, survivable airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. By utilizing a “military off-the-shelf” (MOTS) approach, L3Harris aims to bypass the decade-long development timelines typically associated with new defense programs.
The platform has already demonstrated substantial market viability. In late 2025, South Korea selected the AERIS X in a major defense procurement deal, and as of April 2026, L3Harris confirmed it has secured a second, undisclosed international customer, giving the program significant export momentum.
The AERIS X Platform and Technical Capabilities
High-Altitude Performance and Advanced Radar
According to L3Harris, the AERIS X is built upon the Bombardier Global 6500 business jet airframe. This platform selection allows the aircraft to operate at altitudes up to 41,000 feet. Operating at this high altitude is critical for AEW&C missions, as it maximizes the radar horizon, extends overall coverage, and increases the aircraft’s survivability in contested airspace.
The core of the AERIS X’s surveillance capability is its conformal dual-band Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar-Systems, developed in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) ELTA Systems. The company states that this advanced radar system delivers true 360-degree, gap-free surveillance, effectively eliminating the fore and aft blind spots that plague older designs. Furthermore, the system reportedly offers a 30 percent extended detection range and features high resistance to modern electronic jamming techniques.
Open Architecture and Interoperability
A key selling point highlighted in the L3Harris release is the aircraft’s future-proof design. The conformal sensor integration preserves the Bombardier Global 6500’s outer mold line (OML). Utilizing a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), the architecture allows allied air forces to integrate new sensors and software upgrades affordably over the platform’s lifecycle, without requiring extensive structural modifications or costly recertification processes.
“Allies are prioritizing platforms that can integrate new sensors and capabilities without extensive aircraft modifications. That’s the definition of future-proofing.”
To serve as a critical node in multi-domain operations, the AERIS X is equipped with advanced tactical datalinks, including Link 16, Link 22, JREAP-C, and SATURN. These systems ensure seamless interoperability with fifth-generation fighters like the F-35, as well as future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).
Market Traction and Strategic Partnerships
South Korea and Beyond
L3Harris has successfully leveraged the AERIS X to capture significant international defense contracts. In October 2025, the Republic of Korea selected an L3Harris-led consortium, which includes Bombardier, IAI ELTA Systems, and Korean Air, to provide its next-generation AEW&C fleet. The program, valued at over $2.26 billion, serves as a major endorsement of the platform’s maturity in a highly demanding regional threat environment.
“L3Harris is ready to deliver an advanced aircraft fleet that will strengthen mission effectiveness for a key American ally in the Indo-Pacific region. We look forward to collaborating with the Republic of Korea to develop, test, integrate and sustain this vital capability for years to come.”
Building on this success, L3Harris announced in April 2026 that it had secured a second order for the AERIS X from an unnamed international customer. The company emphasizes a tailored approach to these Partnerships, offering technology transfer and local sustainment to ensure allied nations maintain sovereign control over their defense assets.
NATO and European Expansion
Beyond the Indo-Pacific, L3Harris is actively pitching the AERIS X to European allies. The company is positioning the aircraft for NATO’s Allied Future Surveillance and Control Capability (AFSC) Program. Additionally, L3Harris is targeting nations such as Canada and Poland, emphasizing that interoperability with existing NATO and F-35 fleets is an essential requirement for modern defense.
“The operational lessons from current conflicts are unambiguous. Seeing everything and seeing it earlier aren’t nice-to-have features anymore – they’re requirements when defending your homeland.”
AirPro News analysis
The “David vs. Goliath” Shift in Military Aviation
We are observing a fundamental “David vs. Goliath” shift in military aviation procurement. For decades, airborne early warning was dominated by massive, commercial airliner-sized airframes like the Boeing E-3 Sentry. However, the crippling lifecycle costs, low mission availability rates, and sheer size of these legacy platforms have made them increasingly difficult to sustain. The pivot toward smaller, highly advanced business jets like the AERIS X reflects a broader industry trend prioritizing technological agility and speed of deployment over sheer airframe size.
The threat landscape has evolved rapidly. The rise of drone swarms, low-observable cruise missiles, and hypersonic weapons in recent global conflicts has forced militaries to demand 360-degree, jam-resistant radar coverage that can be deployed today, rather than waiting for next-generation development cycles to mature in the 2030s. By utilizing a commercial business jet base, defense contractors can deliver these capabilities much faster.
Economically, this shift makes sense for allied nations. Countries are currently investing billions of dollars into fifth-generation fighter fleets like the F-35. Platforms like the AERIS X are being marketed as the necessary, cost-effective “quarterback” in the sky required to maximize those fighter investments, networking disparate assets into a cohesive, multi-domain fighting force.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AERIS X?
The AERIS X is a next-generation Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft developed by L3Harris Technologies. It is designed to provide persistent airspace awareness, battle management, and networked command functions for allied militaries.
What aircraft is the AERIS X based on?
The platform is built on the Bombardier Global 6500 business jet, which allows it to operate at high altitudes up to 41,000 feet, maximizing its radar horizon and survivability.
Who has purchased the AERIS X?
In October 2025, South Korea selected the AERIS X in a $2.26 billion deal. In April 2026, L3Harris confirmed a second, undisclosed international customer has also ordered the aircraft.
Sources: L3Harris Technologies
Photo Credit: L3Harris Technologies
Defense & Military
USMC Awards Contract for Sikorsky Robinson Autonomous Cargo Helicopter
The US Marine Corps awarded Sikorsky and Robinson Unmanned $15.5M for the R66 TURBINETRUCK autonomous cargo helicopter under the MARV-EL program.
This article is based on an official press release from Lockheed Martin.
The United States Marine Corps has officially awarded a $15.5 million contract to Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and Robinson Unmanned for Increment 2 of the Medium Aerial Resupply Vehicle, Expeditionary Logistics (MARV-EL) program. Announced on April 27, 2026, the contract marks a significant milestone in the military’s push toward autonomous aerial logistics.
According to the official press release, the core of this new initiative is the R66 TURBINETRUCK. This newly developed autonomous cargo helicopter integrates Sikorsky’s flight-proven MATRIX™ autonomy system with the rugged, commercially successful R66 airframe manufactured by Robinson Helicopter Company.
We note that this development directly addresses the Marine Corps’ urgent requirement for a reliable, “middleweight” uncrewed logistics platform. The primary objective is to deliver critical supplies to Marines operating in highly contested and austere environments, entirely removing human pilots from high-risk supply runs.
The Strategic Context of the MARV-EL Program
The U.S. Marine Corps has been actively restructuring its forces to support modern operational concepts, specifically Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) and Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO). A critical vulnerability identified in these frameworks is logistics. Sustaining small, dispersed units in contested littoral environments is increasingly difficult, as traditional ground convoys and crewed aircraft are highly vulnerable to modern enemy threats.
To mitigate these risks, the Department of Defense established the Unmanned Logistics System, Air (ULS-A) program, which categorizes uncrewed logistics into distinct weight classes. While the Marine Corps has already fielded small tactical drones for light resupply, a capability gap remained for heavier, mid-tier payloads.
Bridging the Logistics Gap
The MARV-EL program represents the “middleweight” tier of the ULS-A framework. Based on program specifications, it is designed to bridge the gap between small tactical quadcopters and large strategic airlifters. The R66 TURBINETRUCK is engineered to operate from unimproved landing zones, forward operating bases, and ship decks, providing a versatile solution for distributed forces.
Inside the R66 TURBINETRUCK
Unveiled earlier this year in March 2026 at the Verticon tradeshow, the R66 TURBINETRUCK is a heavily modified, uncrewed variant of the commercial Robinson R66 turbine helicopter. According to the developers, the aircraft lacks a traditional cockpit and crew stations. Instead, it features a high-volume fuselage, a dedicated cargo floor, and a nose-mounted clamshell door designed to facilitate the rapid loading of palletized freight via forklift.
The performance requirements outlined in the contract mandate that the aircraft carry a logistics payload ranging from 1,300 to 2,500 pounds. Furthermore, it must be capable of delivering this payload over a combat radius of 100 nautical miles (NM).
Powered by MATRIX Autonomy
The intelligence behind the TURBINETRUCK is Sikorsky’s MATRIX™ autonomy suite. The press release highlights that this system has accumulated over 1,000 flight hours of operational data, having been integrated and tested across 21 different aircraft types, ranging from small drones to UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters.
The operator workflow is designed for maximum simplicity in the field. An operator inputs mission objectives into a common digital handheld tablet. The MATRIX system then automatically generates a flight plan, utilizing onboard sensors and algorithms to navigate terrain, avoid obstacles, and safely reach the target location without requiring active remote piloting.
“Operators need logistics solutions that can keep pace with rapidly changing mission demands without increasing complexity. By combining MATRIX’s advanced autonomous capability with the rugged, flight-proven R66 airframe, the R66 TURBINETRUCK delivers that capability whenever and wherever it’s needed, no matter the environment.”
Development Timeline and Industry Impact
The journey to the MARV-EL Increment 2 contract builds upon years of iterative testing. Between July 2024 and July 2025, the Marine Corps evaluated early MARV-EL prototypes. Subsequently, from August to October 2025, Sikorsky participated in the Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) Phase 1, successfully demonstrating the MATRIX system using an optionally piloted UH-60 Black Hawk to autonomously resupply forces. Sikorsky is now leveraging this direct operational experience for the R66 TURBINETRUCK integration.
Robinson Helicopter Company officially launched its “Robinson Unmanned” subsidiary on March 10, 2026, signaling a major pivot toward autonomous aviation for the legacy manufacturer.
“Our partnership with Sikorsky brings the trusted performance and reliability of the R66 platform into the unmanned logistics arena. The R66 TURBINETRUCK represents a significant step forward in expanding proven rotorcraft into scalable, autonomous cargo solutions…”
AirPro News analysis
We view the selection of the R66 TURBINETRUCK as a clear indicator of the Pentagon’s shifting procurement strategy toward “attritable” assets. By utilizing a proven, mass-produced commercial airframe rather than developing a bespoke military drone from scratch, the Department of Defense secures a platform with a lower acquisition cost and a highly established global supply chain for replacement parts. This ensures the asset is affordable enough to be lost in combat without causing devastating financial or strategic setbacks.
Furthermore, the maturation of Sikorsky’s MATRIX system, now integrated into its 21st distinct aircraft model, demonstrates that platform-agnostic, “plug-and-play” autonomous flight software is rapidly becoming an industry standard. This shifts the paradigm away from remote-piloted drones toward fully autonomous, decision-making aircraft.
While the immediate focus of the $15.5 million contract is military logistics, the dual-use potential of the TURBINETRUCK is vast. We anticipate significant commercial applications in the near future, particularly in disaster relief, remote-site commercial resupply, and aerial firefighting, where human pilots currently face extreme, life-threatening risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MARV-EL program?
MARV-EL stands for Medium Aerial Resupply Vehicle, Expeditionary Logistics. It is a U.S. Marine Corps program designed to field a “middleweight” uncrewed aerial logistics platform capable of autonomously delivering supplies to troops in contested environments.
What is the payload capacity of the R66 TURBINETRUCK?
According to the contract specifications, the R66 TURBINETRUCK is required to carry a logistics payload of 1,300 to 2,500 lbs over a combat radius of 100 nautical miles.
Who is developing the R66 TURBINETRUCK?
The aircraft is a collaborative effort between Sikorsky (a Lockheed Martin company), which provides the MATRIX autonomy system, and Robinson Unmanned, which provides the modified R66 turbine helicopter airframe.
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Defense & Military
Honeywell Expands Phoenix Campus for US Navy Jet Trainer Engines
Honeywell to assemble F124 engines in Phoenix for Beechcraft M-346N, supporting the US Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System starting in 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Honeywell.
Honeywell has announced plans to expand its Phoenix Engines campus by introducing on-site assembly for its F124 jet engines. According to a company press release, the newly assembled Honeywell F124-GA-200 engines are slated to power the Beechcraft M-346N, which is currently a candidate for the U.S. Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS).
The expansion aims to co-locate engine manufacturing with the company’s existing engineering and design center in Arizona. Honeywell stated that this strategic alignment is designed to directly support the UJTS program, which is expected to be contracted by the Navy in 2027.
By bringing production closer to its design teams, the aerospace manufacturer hopes to streamline operations ahead of the Navy’s final decision. We note that this development represents a focused effort to bolster domestic defense manufacturing capabilities in the United States.
Powering the Next Generation of Navy Trainers
The Beechcraft M-346N and UJTS Program
The U.S. Navy is actively seeking to replace its aging fleet of T-45 training jets. Through the UJTS program, the military branch plans to procure a new combination of aircraft and simulators, with requirements calling for more than 200 new military aircraft, according to the manufacturer’s announcement.
To meet these requirements, Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo have formed a teaming agreement. The press release notes that the Beechcraft M-346N candidate is part of an integrated training system based on Leonardo’s original M-346 aircraft. If the Navy awards the contract to Textron Aviation Defense, final assembly of the aircraft will take place at Textron’s East Campus in Wichita, Kansas.
Phoenix Campus Expansion and Production Details
Co-locating Engineering and Manufacturing
By bringing assembly to the Phoenix campus, Honeywell expects to streamline its production process. The company projects that assembly of the engines for the Beechcraft M-346N will begin in 2027. Over the subsequent 13 years, Honeywell anticipates building more than 400 engines, utilizing components sourced from 12 different U.S. states.
The F124 engine family has a long history in military aviation. The company highlighted that there are currently over 100 M-346 aircraft in service powered by F124 engines, and the broader F124 and Augmented F125 engine family has accumulated more than 1.5 million flight hours globally.
“We’re proud to start building our F124 engines in Phoenix as we support the U.S. Navy in its new jet trainer program,” said Dave Marinick, president of Engines & Power Systems at Honeywell Aerospace, in the official release.
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we view Honeywell’s decision to expand its Phoenix footprint as a reflection of a broader aerospace industry trend toward consolidating engineering and manufacturing hubs. By emphasizing that the F124 engine contains parts from 12 U.S. states and co-locating assembly domestically, we believe Honeywell and its partners are strategically positioning their bid to appeal to the Department of Defense’s preference for robust, U.S.-based supply chains and manufacturing networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U.S. Navy UJTS program?
The Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) is a U.S. Navy procurement program aimed at replacing the current fleet of T-45 training jets with over 200 modern aircraft and accompanying simulators.
Where will the new Honeywell engines be built?
According to the company, the F124-GA-200 engines will be assembled at Honeywell’s Phoenix Engines campus in Arizona, starting in 2027.
What aircraft will these engines power?
The engines are designed to power the Beechcraft M-346N, a training aircraft proposed by Textron Aviation Defense and Leonardo for the Navy’s UJTS contract.
Sources: Honeywell
Photo Credit: Honeywell
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