Canada-based International Test Pilots School (ITPS Canada) has signed a new contract with Italian manufacturer Leonardo to address growing training requirements of modern air forces. Under the agreement, ITPS will procure six M-346T Block 20 advanced jet trainers. The contract also includes an option for six additional aircraft. The trainers are expected to become operational starting in 2029.

According to a statement from Leonardo, a signing ceremony was held in Venegono, Italy, where final evaluation flights of the aircraft were conducted. Giorgio Clementi, Chairman of ITPS Board, noted that the M-346 platform continues Italy's distinguished legacy in jet training and will make a significant contribution to the first modernization project of the International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) fleet in North Bay. The center currently provides advanced tactical training services to more than fifteen air forces worldwide.

Operating in Canada for over 25 years, ITPS has delivered flight testing and military tactical training to more than 29 air arms. In October 2025, ITPS CEO Dave Lohse conducted a test and evaluation flight in the M-346 platform, emphasizing that the aircraft's high performance, digital flight control system, and advanced training architecture make it ideal for ITTC's next growth phase. Lohse stated that the M-346 will enable the center to train pilots from Canada and allied nations in a modern, operationally-focused environment while enhancing training capacity and interoperability among allied air forces.

Leonardo's M-346 platform has achieved over 160 aircraft sales and logged more than 160,000 flight hours to date. The system is employed across Europe and globally for transition training to high-performance combat aircraft such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35, and next-generation combat air systems. Twenty nations, including Canada, currently utilize the M-346 for pilot training or have selected its multi-role light attack variant.

ITPS's procurement decision reflects growing emphasis among NATO allies on training standardization and interoperability. Investment in advanced jet training platforms directly impacts pilot development quality and operational readiness. The M-346 Block 20 variant provides an operationally-relevant platform with enhanced avionics and training systems suited to modern air combat scenarios.