Textron Aviation Defense announced on 28 January 2025 that, in co-ordination with Japan’s Kanematsu Group, its Beechcraft T-6 Texan II turboprop trainer-based Integrated Training System has been chosen to modernise pilot training for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
Japan will thus join 14 other nations that have selected the T-6 Texan II, adding to a fleet of more than 1,000 T-6 aircraft delivered worldwide so far.
“The T-6 Texan II was selected after a highly competitive and thorough evaluation of training solutions offered by several bidders. Finalisation of the contract is expected in 2025,” the company stated.
The JASDF is modernising its training programme with an integrated solution featuring T-6 Texan II trainers, a comprehensive Ground Based Training System, training for instructor pilots and aircraft maintainers, along with long-term logistic and sustainment support.
The T-6 Texan II will replace the Fuji/Subaru T-7 aircraft that has been the JASDF’s basic trainer for many years.
“We are proud to offer the Japan Air Self-Defense Force a proven and highly capable Integrated Training System that will meet their training needs for decades,” Travis Tyler, president and CEO of Textron Aviation Defense, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “This selection affirms the capabilities of our T-6 Texan II Integrated Training System to enable a well-equipped, prominent and highly skilled JASDF to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
Textron Aviation Defense noted that the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II is the world’s premier military flight trainer with an installed base that more than quadruples that of its closest competitor.
“The Beechcraft T-6 Texan II’s low acquisition, operating and sustainment costs enable global air forces to fast-track pilot production,” the company stated, adding that the aircraft “capitalises on an active production line with an industry-leading manufacturing readiness level (MRL) rating of 10 as well as a proven supply chain and the affordability of 85% parts commonality with the Beechcraft AT-6E Wolverine [light attack aircraft].”
To date, the global fleet of more than 1,000 Beechcraft T-6 Texan IIs has surpassed five million flight hours across 14 nations and two NATO flight schools.