ITPS Canada has signed a contract with Leonardo for six M-346 T Block 20 advanced jet trainers, with options for an additional six aircraft, as part of plans to expand tactical fighter pilot training capability at its International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) in North Bay, Ontario.

The aircraft are expected to enter service from 2029 and will support advanced tactical training requirements for NATO and allied air forces as operational and combat air capabilities continue to evolve.

M-346 TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL TRAINING EXPANSION

The contract was signed in Italy by ITPS Executive Chairman Giorgio Clementi during a ceremony at Leonardo’s Venegono facility, which also included a final evaluation flight of the aircraft.

According to ITPS, the M-346 acquisition forms part of a wider capability enhancement programme at the International Tactical Training Centre, which currently provides advanced training services to more than ten international air forces.

ITPS stated that the new aircraft will contribute to growing demand for modern lead-in fighter training as combat systems become increasingly sophisticated and air forces seek expanded interoperability and training capacity.

EVALUATION FLIGHT COMPLETED IN 2025

In October 2025, ITPS CEO Dave Lohse conducted an airborne evaluation of the M-346 in airspace north of Ottawa International Airport. Following the evaluation, Lohse described the aircraft as closely aligned with the operational requirements of modern fighter pilot training.

Lohse stated that the aircraft’s digital flight control system and advanced training architecture would support the next phase of growth at the International Tactical Training Centre and help facilitate multinational pilot training within an operationally focused environment.

LEONARDO HIGHLIGHTS GLOBAL TRAINING ROLE

Leonardo Aeronautics Division Managing Director Stefano Bortoli said the M-346 had become central to an integrated training system now used by a growing number of air forces worldwide.

Leonardo stated that the M-346 fleet has accumulated more than 160,000 flight hours, with over 160 aircraft sold globally. The platform is used to train pilots transitioning to aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35 and future combat air systems.

The company also noted that twenty countries, including Canada, either currently train pilots on the M-346 platform or have selected the aircraft in its multirole light fighter configuration.