Japan Orders T-6 Texan II Trainers from Textron

Textron Aviation Defense has finalized its first contract to deliver the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II integrated training system to Japan.

According to a press release dated Dec. 21, Textron Aviation Defense confirmed it has completed an initial agreement to supply the Beechcraft T-6JP Texan II to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The contract was coordinated with Kanematsu Corporation, which is supporting the program in Japan.

The initial contract covers two Beechcraft T-6JP Texan II aircraft along with instructor pilot training and aircraft maintainer training materials. Company says deliveries of the first two aircraft are scheduled for 2029, and additional contracts are anticipated as the program expands.

The Beechcraft T-6 Texan II is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Defense LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Aviation. The aircraft is used as an integrated training system that combines modern avionics, simulation, and ground-based instruction to prepare pilots for more advanced fighter and multi-role aircraft.

“This contract marks a pivotal step in strengthening Japan’s next-generation pilot training capabilities,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO of Textron Aviation Defense. “We’re honored to support the Japan Air Self-Defense Force with a proven, interoperable training system that’s trusted by air forces around the world and tailored to meet Japan’s mission requirements for decades to come.”

Textron Aviation Defense said the T-6 Texan II platform has a broad operational record. More than 1,000 aircraft are currently in service worldwide, with over five million flight hours logged. The system supports pilot training across 15 nations, trains pilots from 40 countries at two NATO flight schools, and is used by multiple branches of the U.S. military.

Company says Japan’s decision reflects confidence in the T-6 Texan II as a foundation for military flight training. The aircraft is intended to provide a bridge between initial flight instruction and more advanced jet training, reducing transition time and standardizing pilot skill sets.

The T-6JP variant is tailored to Japan’s requirements while maintaining interoperability with allied training standards. Textron Aviation Defense emphasized that the aircraft’s design allows for long-term sustainment and upgrades, supporting extended service life.

The Beechcraft T-6 Texan II family has been in continuous production for more than two decades. Textron notes that the platform benefits from an active production line, a mature supply chain, and established maintenance and training infrastructure. The company said this allows air forces to field aircraft without the delays often associated with new training platforms.

Japan has been reviewing its pilot training pipeline as it introduces new combat aircraft and modernizes its air fleet. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force operates advanced fighters and is preparing for future platforms, increasing demand for efficient and standardized training systems.

While the current agreement is limited to two aircraft, defense officials and industry sources view the contract as an entry point rather than a final fleet decision. Textron Aviation Defense indicated that additional contracts are expected, suggesting a phased approach to replacing or supplementing existing training aircraft.