Textron's M-346N Advances in U.S. Navy Jet Trainer Competition

Textron Aviation Defense submitted the M-346N for the U.S. Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System competition. Sierra Nevada Corporation withdrew its Freedom Jet proposal, saying the competition’s current contract structure prevented it from bidding.

Key details

• The Navy set October 30, 2026, as the proposal deadline and is conducting source selection, with an award intended in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2027.
• The Navy’s acquisition objective is 216 new jet trainers to replace its T-45 fleet.
• The M-346N adapts Leonardo’s M-346 Master trainer for naval use.

The Navy plans to acquire 216 jet trainers to replace its T-45 fleet.

Why it matters

The UJTS competition will shape the Navy’s next generation of jet training aircraft. SNC said it remains interested in naval jet training and could re-engage if the Navy changes its contracting approach.