Finmeccanica, CAE USA and Honeywell join Raytheon in USAF Pilot Training Bid

Raytheon will be the prime contractor in a team that includes Finmeccanica, CAE USA and Honeywell Aerospace for the U.S. Air Force’s Advanced Pilot Training competition.

The Raytheon team’s solution combines the Finmeccanica T-100, an advanced variant of the Aermacchi M-346, with a leading-edge Ground Based Training System.

The Raytheon-led team is offering a comprehensive trainer to prepare future USAF pilots for the capabilities unique to advanced 4th and 5th generation fighters, said Rick Yuse, president of Raytheon’s Space and Airborne Systems.

“Our affordable, low risk, open systems solution combines a proven aircraft with a suite of fully integrated training technologies. Our team is best positioned to bring the essential experience, capabilities and core competencies together to meet the United States Air Force’s mission requirements.”

"The T-100 offers dynamic kinetic performance, while also delivering an embedded, tactical training system that immerses pilots in realistic mission scenarios,” said Filippo Bagnato, managing director of Finmeccanica Aircraft Division.

“The M-346, the basis for the T-100, is already operational and preparing pilots around the world for the challenges of today’s complex fighter platforms.”

CAE USA designs and develops some of the world’s most sophisticated, simulation-based training systems for lead-in fighter trainer aircraft.

“Our system will prepare Air Force pilots to safely and efficiently fly the most advanced fighter aircraft,” said Gene Colabatistto, group president – Defense & Security, CAE.  “Our integrated simulation technologies will play an increasingly critical role in ensuring sophisticated, safe, cost-effective training for the United States Air Force."

Honeywell Aerospace will provide twin, F124 turbofan engines to power the T-100 via the International Turbine Engine Company (ITEC) joint venture. With more than 800,000 operating hours across the entire F124/F125 turbofan engine family to date, the F124 delivers best-in-class thrust-to-weight ratio, proven reliability and enhanced efficiency.

“Honeywell’s F124 turbofan engine ensures training and light combat aircraft have the best power, easiest maintenance, flexibility and low life-cycle cost to support all types and roles of missions,” said Carey Smith, president, Defense and Space, Honeywell Aerospace.