This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Jun 17, 2025. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.
T-54A
The U.S. Navy’s new multi-engine trainer reached initial operational capability (IOC) in May, the service announced June 9.
The Textron T-54A Merlin II is replacing the aging T-44C Pegasus to provide Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and allied training for multi-engine platforms such as the P-8A, E-2D and C-130. The service has received 15 of the aircraft so far, with plans to buy up to 64 with deliveries running through 2026. The T-54A is a modified King Air 260.
“Achieving IOC reflects our commitment to provide student naval aviators with the most realistic, effective training aircraft to equip them for today’s complex battlespace,” Capt. Duane Whitmer, Naval Undergraduate Flight Training Systems Program Office (PMA-273) program manager, said in an announcement.
The Navy says the T-54A’s modern cockpit includes new avionics and navigational updates, with side-by-side seating and a jump seat for effective training. The aircraft’s advanced instruments and asymmetric engine handling help train pilots for both multi-engine and tiltrotor fleets, Naval Air Systems Command says.
Related Content
