Aviation News – A landmark agreement will soon bring the first American student pilots to the International Flight Training School (IFTS) in Decimomannu, Sardinia. For the first time in U.S. military aviation history, the Air Force has selected a foreign NATO partner school for pilot training.
The “Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Flight Training of the USAF Military Personnel in Italy” was signed separately on August 22, 2025, by Lieutenant General Antonio Conserva, Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, and Lieutenant General Brian S. Robinson, Commander of the U.S. Air Force Air Education & Training Command. The decision confirms IFTS as a global center of excellence, capable of delivering innovative and demanding training programs. The T-346A aircraft, closely aligned with the USAF’s future T-7 trainer, played a key role in finalizing the agreement.
Key Benefits of the Agreement
- First time USAF selects a foreign training school within NATO
- Deployment of 10 U.S. student pilots to Decimomannu
- Nine-month program leading to a Military Pilot License on the T-346A
- Training based on the joint “Multiphase Jet Training Integrated Syllabus”
- Strengthened transatlantic cooperation between Italy and the USAF
The T-346A advanced jet trainer, centerpiece of the new training program for U.S. Air Force student pilots at the International Flight Training School in Decimomannu, Sardinia.
The training will take place within the IFTS framework, built on collaboration between the Italian Air Force and Leonardo Corporation. Managed by the 212th Flight Group/IFTS, part of the 61st Wing in Galatina, the Decimomannu facility provides a modern, integrated syllabus designed to prepare pilots for front-line operations.
“This agreement marks a milestone not only for the United States Air Force but also for the future of international flight training,” said a spokesperson for the Italian Air Force. “The presence of American students at IFTS confirms the value of our training model and its global relevance.”
The arrival of the first ten U.S. students represents a major step in strengthening NATO cooperation in advanced pilot training. Looking forward, the partnership could pave the way for further integration of allied forces and the expansion of IFTS as a premier destination for global military aviation training.
By welcoming USAF pilots, Italy consolidates its role as a leader in international flight education and reinforces the strategic bonds that underpin transatlantic security.
Alenia Aermacchi M-346A Master MT55230/61-25 IFTS Italian Air Force
Photos Rob Vogelaar
