CAE and Leonardo have expanded their collaboration to advance the M-346 Integrated Training System, reinforcing their long-standing partnership in advanced fighter pilot training.
The agreement focuses on developing next-generation integrated training capabilities to prepare pilots for increasingly complex operational environments, including AI-enabled systems, autonomous mission scenarios, and next-generation air operations.
As part of the expanded partnership, the companies will collaborate on a technology roadmap to enhance the M-346 training system, including Block 20 system features. The agreement also extends into Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) and Live Synthetic Integration (LSI) environments, reflecting the growing importance of blended training solutions.
A central element of the collaboration is the International Flight Training School (IFTS), which combines live flight training, advanced simulation, and mission rehearsal to support pilot readiness and operational effectiveness.
The integrated training approach at IFTS also supports greater interoperability among allied air forces, enabling pilots from different nations to train together using shared standards, tactics, and mission scenarios.
“Our longstanding collaboration with Leonardo and the International Flight Training School (IFTS) stands as the premier example of combining highly sophisticated simulation technologies and live flight training to deliver world-class pilot instruction and operational readiness,” said Pascal Grenier, President, CAE Defence & Security. “The future battlespace will place greater demands on pilots than ever before. Through this collaboration, we will develop training environments that help aviators build the judgement, adaptability, and decision-making skills needed to employ advanced and automated mission systems.”
“As nations across the world prepare to operate increasingly advanced and integrated air capabilities, pilot training must rapidly adapt,” stated Stefano Bortoli, Managing Director of Leonardo Aeronautics. “This agreement with CAE strengthens the development of highly skilled pilots for current and future operational requirements and enhances our ability to support defence leaders in preparing for the challenges of tomorrow’s battlespace.”
