Textron Aviation Defence has taken a significant step into the Asia-Pacific defence training market, finalising its first contract to deliver the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II integrated training system to Japan’s Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF). Announced on 22 December 2025, the agreement marks the beginning of a long-term training partnership between Textron Aviation Defense and Japan, supported locally through coordination with Kanematsu Corporation.

Under the initial contract, Textron Aviation Defence will supply two Beechcraft T-6JP Texan II aircraft, along with instructor pilot and aircraft maintainer training materials. Deliveries of the first aircraft are scheduled for 2029, with additional contracts anticipated as Japan advances its next-generation pilot training programme.

Designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Defence LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Aviation Inc., the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II has become a cornerstone of modern military flight training worldwide. According to the company, the platform’s selection by Japan reflects confidence in a proven, interoperable training system that has been tailored to meet specific mission requirements over the long term.

“This contract marks a pivotal step in strengthening Japan’s next-generation pilot training capabilities,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO of Textron Aviation Defence. He noted that the company is honoured to support the JASDF with a system trusted by air forces around the world and designed to serve operational needs for decades to come.

The T-6 Texan II brings an extensive operational pedigree to Japan’s training ecosystem. With more than 1,000 aircraft in service and over five million flight hours logged, it is the world’s most widely adopted integrated training system. The platform supports pilot training across 15 nations, with pilots from 40 countries trained at two NATO flight schools, alongside multiple branches of the US military. Japan now joins this established international user community.

At the heart of the programme is the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II’s reputation as the world’s premier military flight trainer. Backed by more than 95 years of Textron aviation experience and a global delivery record exceeding 255,000 aircraft, the Texan II is positioned as a cost-effective solution for air forces seeking to accelerate pilot production. Its installed base more than quadruples that of its closest competitor, and the aircraft family has remained the world’s number one integrated training system for more than 20 years.

Textron Aviation Defence also points to its active production line, industry-leading Manufacturing Readiness Level rating of 10, and a proven supply chain as key factors underpinning the programme’s long-term sustainability.

For Japan’s Air Self-Defence Force, the selection of the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II signals a commitment to a globally established training platform as it modernises its pilot training framework. For Textron Aviation Defence, the contract represents a strategic entry point into Japan’s defence aviation training landscape, with further programme expansion expected in the years ahead.