Textron Aviation Defense has signed a contract to deliver the first Beechcraft T-6JP Texan II training aircraft to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The acquisition follows Japan’s selection of the platform to replace its aging Fuji T-7 trainers. The initial order includes two aircraft along with pilot training and sustainment materials, with deliveries scheduled for 2029. Textron will work alongside local partner Kanematsu Corporation to support the program. The T-6JP is a two-seat turboprop designed to prepare pilots for advanced fighter aircraft, offering optional precision training systems, digital terrain mapping, and NATO-standard weapons integration. Powered by a 1,100-horsepower PT6A engine, the aircraft has accumulated over 5 million flight hours worldwide and is now operated by 15 nations.
