The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, May 27, edition that Italy's Leonardo has sold 12 advanced M-346 jets to ITPS Canada, a private pilot training company. The Globe's Eric Reguly writes that there is growing demand for new pilots among NATO countries. ITPS purchased six jets with options for six more. While the exact price wasn't disclosed, M-346s typically range from $20-million to $40-million each (all figures U.S.). At an estimated $30-million each for all 12 jets, the sale is valued at over $350-million. The deal marks the M-346's first foray in Canada. Leonardo is also trying to sell the aircraft to the Royal Canadian Air Force. The M-346's main competition for that contract is thought to be the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, which is used by the United States Air Force. The RCAF is in the market for an advanced lead-in fighter trainer -- an aircraft whose student-pilot graduates would go on to fly the latest-generation fighter-bombers, including the Lockheed Martin F-35, the Saab Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon. Canada has ordered 88 F-35s but has so far committed to take only 16 of them. All of the RCAF's lead-in fighter training is currently done outside Canada because the force lacks suitable aircraft.