The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Alenia Aermacchi, a company of Finmeccanica [SIFI.MI], today announced an agreement to jointly pursue the international trainer aircraft market.

Both companies will cooperate on marketing, sales, training and product support activities in international markets for the M-346 next-generation Advanced and Lead-in Fighter Trainer and the M-311 basic-advanced trainer designed and manufactured by Alenia Aermacchi.

Under the agreement, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' Support Systems division will be responsible for several aspects of the program's logistics support and associated training.

Combining Boeing's sustainment and training systems capabilities with Alenia Aermacchi will improve mission effectiveness, help reduce total cost of ownership and further strengthen the advantages of the M-346 and M-311.

This strategic alliance is designed to increase the two companies' commercial presence in the international market for next-generation trainers by offering the best 'market solution' to meet customer needs.