WICHITA, Kan. (Dec. 9, 2013) – Beechcraft Defense Company and FlightSafety International recently delivered the last of 131 T-6 aircrew training devices (ATDs) produced for the U.S. Military’s Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) ground-based training system. The final devices were delivered to the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Beechcraft and FlightSafety began deliveries of the JPATS training devices in 2000, delivering T-6A and T-6B devices to U.S. Air Force bases and then U.S. Navy bases as the program stood up. Whether for U.S. or international customers, the T-6 training devices are known for safely and reliably bridging the gap between academics and aircraft sorties.
“We’re proud to be able to say that all student pilots for the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps are trained in Beechcraft T-6 aircraft and the T-6 simulators produced in a partnership between Beechcraft and FlightSafety,” said Russ Bartlett, president, Beechcraft Defense Company. “It’s been an impressive partnership: every single T-6 aircrew training device has been delivered on time and on budget.”
Additionally, Beechcraft and FlightSafety have partnered to produce and deliver training devices for the pilot training programs of international T-6 customers in Greece, Israel, Morocco and Iraq.
The high fidelity training devices exactly replicate cockpit layout and aircraft performance. They are well-suited for cockpit procedures and emergency handling practice, providing an unmatched capability to perform training events and maneuvers in a safe, controlled, efficient and cost-effective environment.
The T-6 military trainer offers military operators worldwide the most proven and cost-effective primary aviation training system available today. Aircraft deliveries began in 2000 after the Beechcraft aircraft was selected to fill the JPATS role for the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy. Since then, additional military customers worldwide have selected the T-6, including NATO Flying Training Canada, the Hellenic Air Force of Greece, the Israeli Air Force, the Iraqi Air Force, the Royal Moroccan Air Force and the Mexican Air Force. Beechcraft delivered its 800th T-6 trainer aircraft in March 2013, continuing its strong track record of on-time, on-budget deliveries.
In addition to accommodating instruction in flying basics, instrument flight procedures and acrobatic maneuvers, the T-6 delivers a world-class training capability that is versatile and flexible enough for teaching introductory flight training tasks, yet sophisticated enough to enable the more challenging and complex advanced training missions that could previously be accomplished only in far more expensive jet aircraft.
T-6 models include the original JPATS-winning T-6A, the Navy’s T-6B and a third variant called the T-6C. The T-6B and C are advanced versions of the T-6A with updated cockpit avionics. In order to replicate today’s high-tech frontline aircraft, the new cockpit includes a Heads-Up Display (HUD), Up-Front Control Panel (UFCP), three-color Multi-function Displays (MFD) and Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS). The integrated glass cockpit and a state-of-the-art avionics suite greatly expands its capabilities, enabling the advanced systems and information management skills training required in current and future military aircraft. The T-6C variant maintains avionics similarity with the T-6B while incorporating a hard-point wing to allow carriage of external fuel tanks, weapons and other stores.
About Beechcraft
Beechcraft designs, builds and supports versatile and globally renowned aircraft, including the King Air turboprops, piston-engine Baron and Bonanza, and the T-6 trainer and AT-6 light attack military aircraft. Its 5,400 highly skilled employees are focused on continuously improving the company’s products and services which are sold to individuals, businesses and governments worldwide. In business since 1932, Beechcraft has built more than 54,000 aircraft and more than 36,000 continue flying today. It leads the industry with a global network of more than 90 factory-owned and authorized service centers. The company’s headquarters and major manufacturing facilities are located in Wichita, Kan. For more information, visit beechcraft.com or follow us on Twitter @Beechcraft.
