The M-346N by Leonardo and Textron is being proposed as a replacement for the US Navy’s T-45 Goshawk, with a decision expected in 2027.
The US Navy is considering replacing its T-45 Goshawk training aircraft, which has been in service since the 1990s. The M-346N, developed by Leonardo and Textron, is one of the candidates for this replacement. This new aircraft, designed specifically to meet the Navy’s needs, is part of an integrated training system already used for F-35 pilot training. The Navy has decided that the new aircraft will not need to be capable of carrier-based operations, which could speed up the acquisition process. A minimum order of 145 aircraft is planned, with a contract award expected in early 2027.
The M-346N: an integrated training system
The M-346N is offered by Leonardo and Textron to replace the US Navy’s T-45 Goshawk. This aircraft is a specific version of the M-346, adapted to the Navy’s needs. It is part of a complete training system, already used for the training of F-35 pilots in several countries.
The M-346N is equipped with two engines, offering increased safety in case of failure. Although it is not supersonic, it is very maneuverable and has a throttle system that simulates afterburning, allowing pilots to train in situations close to actual flight.
This training system also includes advanced simulators, reducing the costs and risks associated with flight training. This integrated approach is already used by several air forces around the world, demonstrating its reliability and effectiveness.
End of aircraft carrier operations requirements
The US Navy has decided that the new training aircraft will not need to be capable of carrier-based operations. This decision is motivated by advances in simulators and ground-based training systems, which make it possible to faithfully reproduce landing conditions.
This development simplifies the design of the aircraft, thus reducing development costs and times. It also opens the door to a greater variety of candidates for the replacement of the T-45, including aircraft not designed for carrier operations.
This decision reflects a broader trend in pilot training, where the emphasis is on the use of advanced simulators to reduce costs and improve safety.
The UJTS program: schedule and objectives
The Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program aims to replace the T-45 Goshawk with a new training aircraft. The US Navy is planning a minimum order of 145 aircraft, with a contract award scheduled for early 2027.
The program emphasizes speed of service, with a target delivery date of three years after contract award for the first test aircraft. This approach is intended to meet the urgent need to replace the T-45, which has problems with maintenance and availability.
The UJTS program also includes the development of a complete ground training system, including simulators and training devices, to provide effective and realistic training for future pilots.
The T-45 Goshawk: an aircraft at the end of its life
The T-45 Goshawk has been in service since the 1990s and is showing signs of ageing. The US Navy currently has around 190 aircraft, which require costly upgrades to remain operational.
Maintenance problems, particularly engine-related incidents, have led to the immobilization of the fleet in recent years. These problems highlight the need to replace the T-45 with a new, more modern and reliable training aircraft.
Replacing the T-45 is therefore a priority for the US Navy, in order to guarantee the effective and safe training of future pilots.
The M-346N’s competitors
Several other aircraft are in competition to replace the T-45 Goshawk. Among them are the T-7A Red Hawk from Boeing, the TF-50N from Lockheed Martin and Korea Aerospace Industries, and the Hürjet from Turkish Aerospace Industries.
The T-7A is a single-engine aircraft developed for the US Air Force, while the TF-50N is a navalized version of the South Korean T-50. The Hürjet is a new aircraft developed by Turkey, in partnership with Sierra Nevada Corporation, to meet the criteria of the US Navy.
Each candidate has advantages and disadvantages, and the US Navy will have to carefully evaluate the available options to choose the best replacement for the T-45.
Prospects and challenges
Replacing the T-45 Goshawk is a major challenge for the US Navy, which must guarantee the effective training of its pilots while keeping costs and deadlines under control. The choice of the new training aircraft will have significant implications for the future of fighter pilot training.
The M-346N, with its integrated training system and operational experience, is a serious candidate for this replacement. Its selection would allow the US Navy to benefit from a proven and readily available solution.
However, the competition is strong, and the US Navy will have to take many factors into account to make the best possible choice.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.