The new "lead in" advanced trainer for the Clone Air Force, the K3 Pterodactyl, has been officially unveiled ahead of a first flight in the Summer. The K3 will also be the basis of the K58 light attack aircraft and is a clean-sheet advanced design intended to be highly agile and efficient.
The K3 is based around an innovative hybrid powerplant that combines a turbofan with an electrically powered duct fan for low-speed flight and cruise. Its the first time such a hybrid powerplant has been used by the Clones, its not known if the K58 will use the same engine. The K3 is expected to enter service in 2116 and will train pilots to fly the K45C/K in CAF and CNAS service.