The Canadian government is negotiating to purchase approximately 30 M-346 twin-engine trainer jets from Italian aerospace manufacturer Leonardo SpA.
A technical delegation is scheduled to travel to Rome later this week to finalize discussions on what sources describe as one of Ottawa's largest recent aerospace defense acquisitions.
The aircraft would serve as the primary training platform for pilots preparing to operate the Royal Canadian Air Force's next generation of fighter-bombers.
The potential contract represents a significant export win for Leonardo, strengthening its position in the North American military aviation market.
For investors, the deal signals continued demand for advanced jet trainers amid global defense spending increases.
The M-346 is widely used by NATO allies for advanced pilot training, offering a proven platform that reduces integration risk for the RCAF.