Beechcraft T-6

Textron-based Beechcraft Defense has delivered its 900th T-6 military training aircraft to the US Navy’s Training Air Wing 5 based at Whiting Field in Milton, Florida.

The latest delivery marks the 224th T-6B military trainer delivered to the navy as part of the joint primary aircraft training system (JPATS) programme.

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Beechcraft Defense president Russ Bartlett said: "Building the most efficient and effective military flight trainer is of utmost importance to us.

"Having logged more than 2.5 million flight hours globally, and now delivering 900 aircraft, the Beechcraft T-6 continues to prove it is one of the most utilised and trusted aircraft training platforms in the world."

The T-6B, a derivative of the T-6A military trainer aircraft, features an integrated glass cockpit and an advanced Esterline CMC Cockpit 4000 avionics suite, offering advanced training capabilities.

"The Beechcraft T-6 continues to prove it is one of the most utilised and trusted aircraft training platforms in the world."

The T-6B aircraft is capable of training pilots in the most advanced aerobatic manoeuvres and simulated combat training tasks, flying at a top speed of 316kt.

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In addition, it is equipped with a hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS) technology, which delivers the student pilot and instructor with a simpler interface to the digital cockpit.

Completed its inaugural flight in July 2009, the US Navy deployed the aircraft as the primary aircraft for flight training.

The variants of Beechcraft’s T-6 aircraft are being used in more than 20 countries including by Nato Flying Training Canada, the Hellenic Air Force of Greece, as well as the Israeli, Iraqi, Royal Moroccan, and the Mexican Air Forces.

Image: Naval Air Station Whiting Field Training Squadron Two commanding officer CDR Thad Wither and Beechcraft Defense president Russ Bartlett.

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