The Canadian International Test Pilots School Canada (ITPS Canada) has announced the purchase of six Leonardo M-346 T Block 20 advanced trainer jets, with an option to acquire six additional aircraft in the future.
According to a report by The Aviationist, the aircraft will be used at the International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) in North Bay, Ontario, to expand training opportunities for NATO pilots and those from allied nations.
According to Leonardo, the first aircraft are expected to enter service starting in 2029. The contract was signed in Italy during a ceremony that also included a final evaluation flight of the new advanced trainer.
The M-346 is considered one of the most advanced military trainer aircraft on the market and was designed to prepare pilots for operating modern fighter jets, including fifth-generation aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II and future sixth-generation fighters associated with the GCAP program.
The new Block 20 version features a redesigned cockpit with high-definition panoramic displays, advanced embedded simulation systems, and integration with augmented reality helmets similar to those used in modern fighter aircraft. The aircraft also includes new mission computers and a digital architecture tailored for complex air combat scenarios.
ITPS stated that the purchase is part of an expansion of military training capacity at a time of growing global demand for pilots capable of operating increasingly sophisticated aircraft. The Canadian center currently serves more than ten international air forces.
“The M-346 is an exceptionally capable advanced jet trainer that closely aligns with the operational requirements of modern fighter pilot training,” said Dave Lohse, CEO of ITPS.
“The aircraft’s performance, digital flight control system, and advanced training architecture make it an ideal platform to support the next phase of growth for the International Tactical Training Centre.”
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Photos: Leonardo. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
