U.S. Navy Increases Budget for Next-Gen Trainer Program
The U.S. Navy has raised the cost ceiling for its Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) to $2.7 billion, following industry concerns about the initial budget constraints. The award is anticipated in March 2027, with production set to ramp up significantly from 2032 onward.

The U.S. Navy announced a revised cost target for the Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS), increasing the ceiling to $2.7 billion from the initial $1.75 billion. The RFP, released in late March, aims to replace the T-45 Goshawk fleet, with an award expected in March 2027.
Initial funding includes $52.8 million for fiscal 2027 and $181 million for fiscal 2028. Competitors include Boeing with the T-7A Red Hawk, Textron Aviation with the Beechcraft M-346N, and Sierra Nevada Co. partnering with Northrop Grumman and General Atomics.
Production is projected to begin in 2032, with a final goal of 216 trainers over the program’s duration. The cost adjustment may allow for enhanced development flexibility but raises questions about the omission of carrier landing capabilities from the requirements.




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