Q&A with Travis Tyler: How the M-346N can revolutionize pilot training for the U.S. Navy

Travis Tyler, president & CEO, Textron Aviation Defense, shares insights into the announcement of the Beechcraft M-346N, an advanced jet trainer poised to meet the U.S. Navy’s urgent need for a modern, integrated training ecosystem. Discover how the M-346N is ready to provide the U.S. Navy with a complete solution that enhances student readiness and operational effectiveness while reducing training costs and risks.

Q: What’s the Beechcraft M-346N and why is Textron Aviation Defense offering it now? 

A: The Beechcraft M-346N is an advanced jet trainer based on the operationally proven M-346 platform and designed to meet the U.S. Navy’s urgent need to replace its aging T-45 Goshawk fleet. The Navy is seeking a modern, integrated training ecosystem — not just an aircraft, but a fully connected and suite of simulation, instructional tools and adaptive, tailorable courseware. We know timeliness and schedule are critical to the Navy and the M-346N is ready now, offering a low-risk, high-capability solution that can be delivered quickly to meet this critical demand.

Q: What makes the M-346N a low-risk solution? 

A: The M-346N has been flying operationally for nearly a decade with the Italian Air Force and other international customers. Its aerodynamic performance and integrated training system are already proven and are continuously improving through this operational experience. If the Navy brought us a student today, we could train them to the expected standard to begin operational training in any Navy / Marine aircraft. This maturity eliminates the delays and uncertainties typical of new aircraft development programs. 

Q: How does the M-346N support modern pilot training needs? 

A: Today’s pilots must manage complex information systems, not just fly aircraft. The M-346N is equipped with advanced displays, including Head-Up Display and Large Area Display in each cockpit, and supports simulated radar and sensor training. It allows students to develop both fundamental flying skills and advanced mission management capabilities in a cost-effective platform — at a fraction of the cost of flying an F-18 or F-35.

Q: What role does simulation play in the M-346N training ecosystem? 

A: Simulation is completely integrated with and complementary to live flight operations. The M-346N supports live, virtual and constructive training, enabling realistic mission scenarios without the need for expensive live assets. For example, carrier landing practice can be conducted in high-fidelity simulators replicating deck operations and all aspects of carrier aviation, freeing up real carriers for operational missions. This integrated approach enhances training effectiveness while reducing wear on aircraft and infrastructure. 

Q: Will the M-346N be assembled in the United States? 

A: Yes. While a few major structural components — including the wing, fuselage and tail — will be manufactured by Leonardo, the M-346N will be assembled in the U.S. With our heritage deeply rooted in the strength and reliability of American manufacturing, the Beechcraft M-346N joins a proud lineup of aircraft built on 95 years of aviation excellence. 

Q: How’s the software and systems integration handled? 

A: Leonardo develops the aircraft’s fly-by-wire and avionics software, which is used across the entire training ecosystem. This ensures seamless integration between the aircraft, simulators and courseware. The system also features open architecture aspects, allowing the U.S. government to modify displays and training tools as needed — future-proofing the platform for evolving requirements.

Q: What’s the delivery timeline if the Navy selects the Beechcraft M-346N? 

A: The Navy currently plans to request delivery of the first aircraft by 2030, with a gradual ramp-up through the mid-2030s. If the Navy asked us to start today, we could begin to deliver aircraft within 18 months. Our production lines are active, and our supply chain is already hot — ready to scale immediately. 

Q: What sets Textron Aviation Defense apart from the competition? 

A: For us, building military training aircraft is job one. With over 150 years of combined experience building trainers for the U.S. and allied militaries, we bring laser focus on what the Navy needs most. Our team understands how to produce military aviators effectively and safely and to build and deliver the tools that underpin the highest quality instruction. We’re comparatively small and very agile, deeply rooted in the Navy’s training history and committed to delivering a no-drama, high-performance solution. When the Navy calls, they get the A team, direct access to leadership and a partner who’s ready now.