Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master
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The Aermacchi M-346 Master is a family of military twin-engine transonic advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft. Originally co-developed with Yakovlev as the Yak/AEM-130, the partnership was dissolved in 2000 and then Alenia Aermacchi proceeded to separately develop the M-346 Master, while Yakovlev continued work on the Yakovlev Yak-130. The first flight of the M-346 was performed in 2004. The M-346 is currently in operation with the air forces of Italy, Israel, Singapore, Greece, Qatar, Turkmenistan, and Poland. Since 2016 the manufacturer became Leonardo-Finmeccanica as Alenia Aermacchi merged into the new Finmeccanica, finally rebranded as Leonardo in 2017.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Development
Background
In 1992, Aermacchi signed a cooperation agreement with Yakovlev to provide financial and technical support for the new trainer that the firm had been developing since 1991 for the Russian Air Force in competition with the Mikoyan MiG-AT. Aermacchi also gained the right to modify and market the aircraft for the Western market.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The resulting aircraft first flew in 1996 and was brought to Italy the following year to replace the aging MB-339. By this point, the aircraft was being marketed as the Yak/AEM-130. In February 1996, Russia provided initial funding for the Yak/AEM-130 and pledged to purchase up to 200 aircraft for the Russian Air Force.<ref>"Yak/Aermacchi trainer funds released; Russia will buy up to 200." Aviation Week, 27 February 1996.</ref>
In October 1998, it was reported that the venture was increasingly becoming an Italian-led effort due to a lack of financial support on the part of Russia.<ref>"Italy studies the Yak/AEM-130 as Russia falters." Flight International, 21 October 1998.</ref> By July 2000, Aermacchi held a 50% stake in the development programme, and Yakovlev and Sokol had a 25% share each.<ref name= "engine 2000">"F124 engine turns Yak-130 into the Aermacchi 346." Flight International, 25 July 2000.</ref> In mid-2000, it was announced that differences in priorities between the two firms, and a lack of financial backing from the programme's Russian participants, had brought about an end to the partnership and that each firm would pursue development of the aircraft independently; Yakovlev received US$77 million in the form of a partial write-off of the USSR/Russian debt towards Italy, and for the legal right to use some of the technical documents of the aircraft.<ref name=IBT_2002>Template:Cite journal</ref><ref name= "russ replace">"Aermacchi assembles M-346 trainer team to replace Russians." Flight International, 1 August 2000.</ref><ref>Template:Cite book</ref> Yakovlev would be able to sell the Yak-130 to countries such as those in the Commonwealth of Independent States, India, Slovakia and Algeria, while Aermacchi would be able to sell the M-346 to NATO countries, among others.<ref name=IBT_2002/>
The M-346 is a highly modified version of the aircraft that was being developed under the joint venture. It uses equipment exclusively from Western manufacturers, such as the digital flight control system being developed by a collaboration between Teleavio, Marconi Italiana and BAE Systems.<ref name= "russ replace"/> In July 2000, Aermacchi selected the Honeywell F124 turbofan engine to power the type in place of the originally intended Lotarev DV-2S powerplant.<ref name= "engine 2000"/><ref>Doyle, Andrew. "Aermacchi may seek new engine for Yak-130." Flight International, 1 February 2000.</ref> In 2004, a contract for the development of a full-mission simulator for the M-346 was awarded to CAE.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> Further production contracts for CAE's full-mission simulator have since been issued.<ref>"CAE wins defence contracts valued at approximately C$220 million." Template:Webarchive CAE, 8 April 2016.</ref>
Into flight
On 7 June 2003, the first M-346 prototype rolled out; ground testing commenced shortly thereafter. On 15 July 2004, the first prototype conducted its maiden flight.<ref name= "nato earlyflights"/>
In January 2005, the Greek Ministry of Defence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to become a partner in the programme, followed by an industrial cooperation agreement between Aermacchi and Hellenic Aerospace Industry in 2006.<ref>Peruzzi, Luca. "Greece's HAI snatches stake in M346 trainer programme." Flight International, 24 January 2006.</ref> In March 2008, the Chilean ENAER signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Alenia Aermacchi at the FIDAE air show.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref>
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On 10 April 2008, the first Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP-00) aircraft, produced in the final configuration (new landing gear and air brake, more composite parts), was rolled out.<ref name="aer ne 2008">Template:Citation.</ref> On 18 December 2008, Aermacchi announced that the M-346 had attained a maximum speed of Mach 1.15 (1,255 km/h, 678 knots, 780 mph), claiming the occasion to be the first in which an all-Italian built aircraft had broken the sound barrier in 50 years.<ref name="AAPR1">Template:Cite press releaseTemplate:Dead link</ref>
In May 2008, Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on the marketing, sales, training and support of two Aermacchi trainer aircraft, the M-346 and the M-311.<ref>Template:CitationTemplate:Dead linkTemplate:Cbignore.</ref>
On 20 June 2011, a Military Type Certification was granted to Alenia Aermacchi for the M-346 Master by the General Directorate for Aeronautical Armaments of the Italian Ministry of Defence in Rome. Throughout the certification process, the M-346 development aircraft made 180 test flights, totalling 200 flights across the course of the previous five months, during which over 3,300 test points were completed.<ref name= "AFM282">"M-346 Master Gains Military Certification" Air Forces Monthly (Key Publishing), Issue 282, September 2011, pp. 10. ISSN 0955-7091. Retrieved 30 September 2011.</ref>
Further development
In the advanced jet trainer role, the original M-346 model is unarmed; however, in November 2015, it was reported that Alenia Aermacchi was close to finalising a combat-capable dual-role variant of the aircraft.<ref name="dualRole">Template:Cite web</ref> During late 2017, a series of armed tests involving the AIM-9L missiles took place.<ref name="IRISTtests">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In 2015, an armed variant, designated as the M-346 LCA (Light Combat Aircraft), was offered to Poland; this reportedly included a capability of operating the Brimstone air-to-ground missile.<ref name="dualRole"/><ref name="LCAforPoland"/>
The armed variant is under development, designated M-346FA. The first pre-series aircraft has flown from Venegono airfield in July 2020.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
In February 2016, the newly created, consolidated Leonardo-Finmeccanica company promoted the Aermacchi M346 in two new roles: companion training and dissimilar air combat training. In order to better replicate the flight performance and behavior of various enemy aircraft, both the g-force and angle of attack can be independently selected in the flight control system; reportedly, existing customers have stated the type to be well suited to the aggressor role.<ref name="sing16 AON">Pocock, Chris. "Italian Jet Trainer Finds New Cost-Saving Roles." AIN Online, 13 February 2016.</ref> Leonardo has offered the M-346 for Companion Training and Adversary/Red Air roles.<ref name=":2">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
In January 2021, Israeli and Greece ministers of defence announced plans to establish a wide-ranging $1.68 billion security agreement that include the procurement of ten M-346 aircraft and the establishment and operation of a flight school for the Hellenic Air Force by Elbit Systems, including provisions for simulators, training and logistic support.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Design
The M-346 is designed for the main role of lead-in fighter trainer, in which aircraft's performance and capabilities are used to deliver pilot training for the latest generation of combat fighter aircraft. Powered by a pair of Honeywell F124 turbofan dry engines, designed to reduce acquisition and operating costs, it is capable of transonic flight without using an afterburner; Alenia Aermacchi has claimed that the M-346's flight performance to be "second only to afterburner-equipped aircraft".<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> During the design process, the twin concepts of "design-to-cost" and "design-to-maintain" were adhered to, reducing acquisition and operational costs;<ref name= "alenia 2014">"Alenia Aermacchi M-346." Template:Webarchive Alenia Aermacchi, 2014.</ref> the per flying hour costs of the M346 are reportedly one-tenth of those of the Eurofighter Typhoon.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> Outside of the training role, the M-346 was designed from the onset to accommodate additional operational capabilities, including combat missions such as close air support and air policing duties.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>
The M-346 incorporates a full-authority quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system which, in combination with the optimized aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft, provides for full manoeuvrability and controllability at very high angle of attack (in excess of 30° degrees).<ref name= "alenia 2014"/> The flight control system, incorporating a HOTAS design philosophy, is equipped with adjustable angle of attack and g-force limitations; when combined with its wide performance envelope, this allows the M-346 to effectively mimic the flight performance of various fighter aircraft operated by trainee pilots or to progressively increase difficulty levels, thus raising the training's effectiveness.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/><ref name= "alenia 2014"/> A pilot activated recovery system (PARS)<ref name=":2" /> is present which, when pressed, conducts an automatic recovery by returning the aircraft to a steady and level flight path.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>
A digital avionics system, modelled on its counterparts on board the latest generation of military aircraft such as the Saab JAS-39 Gripen, the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor and the Eurofighter Typhoon, is incorporated, making it suitable for all stages of advanced flight training and thus reducing the use of combat aircraft for training purposes,<ref name= "alenia 2014"/>”downloading” flight hours from Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) to Pilot Training Unit.<ref name=":2" /> A modular avionics architecture is employed, allowing for new equipment and systems to be incorporated and increasing the type's growth potential. The M-346's glass cockpit is representative of the latest generation cockpit and is compatible with Night Vision Goggles; it has three color LCD multifunctional displays, a head-up display (also in the rear cockpit),<ref name=":2" /> and an optional Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD).<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/><ref name=":2" /> A voice command system is also present, which is integrated with functions such as the navigation system. The communication systems include VHF/UHF transceivers, IFF transponder, and Mid-air Collision Avoidance System (MIDCAS),<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/> and Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS).<ref name=":2" />
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A key feature of the M-346 is the Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS). The ETTS is capable of emulating various equipment, such as radar, targeting pods, weapons, and electronic warfare systems; additionally, the ETTS can interface with various munitions and other equipment actually being carried on board.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> The system can act in a standalone mode, in which simulated data and scenario information, with threats and targets,<ref name=":2" /> is loaded prior to takeoff, or in a network, during which data is received and acted upon in real time from ground monitoring stations via the aircraft's datalink.<ref name= "alenia 2014"/> The ETTS can generate realistic Computer Generated Forces (both friend and foe).<ref name=":2" /> For post-mission evaluation and analysis purposes, accumulated data, such as video from the optional Helmet Mounted Display, can be extracted and reviewed.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> Leonardo also offer an Integrated Training System (ITS), combining the M-346 with a Ground-Based Training System (GBTS) - composed of academic training devices, simulators, mission planning and training management systems - and full logistic service<ref name=":2" /> as part of a wider syllabus towards qualifying pilots.<ref name= "alenia 2014"/>
The M-346, in the multirole Fighter Attack variant (M-346FA), is equipped with a multi-mode fire-control radar (Grifo M-346 by Leonardo Electronics)<ref name=":2" /> and a total of seven hardpoints, it is capable of carrying external loads up to 3,000 kg while maintaining a high thrust-to-weight ratio; stores management data can be presented upon any of the multifunction displays in the cockpit.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The radar cross-section of the M346 in a standard configuration is reportedly 20 square meters; this can be reduced to a single square meter by installing a low-observability kit which has been developed for the type. Other self-protection systems that can be fitted include a Defensive-Aids Support System (DASS) which includes Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and Chaff and Flares Dispensers (C&FD). The high-end, net-centric communication suite of the M-346FA includes secure comms and Tactical Datalink, both NATO and non-NATO.
The combat capable M-346FA can perform ground attack, homeland defence and air policing missions and reconnaissance. Various munitions and stores can be carried, including IRIS-T or AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, various air-to-surface missiles, anti-ship missiles, free-fall and laser-guided bombs and rockets, a 12.7 mm gun pod, reconnaissance and targeting pods, and electronic warfare pods; weapon aiming is performed using the Helmet Mounted Display and the multifunction displays. All main systems are duplicated, and the flight system reconfigurable, to increase survivability and functionality in the event of battle damage being sustained.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/> The aircraft has a maximum range of 1,375 nautical miles when outfitted with a maximum of three external fuel tanks, this can be extended via in-flight refuelling via a removable refuelling probe.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/><ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>
Operational history
Italian Air Force
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In 2007, it was reported that the Italian Air Force intended to initially acquire a batch of 15 low rate production M-346s.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> On 18 June 2009, Alenia Aermacchi announced they had received an order for the first six with an option for nine more.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> In September 2015, the Italian Air Force started their first training course using the M-346 trainer.<ref>Kington, Tom. "Italy Launches M-346 Training With Eye on T-X Bid." Defense News, 12 September 2015.</ref> In March 2016, Finmeccanica signed a contract worth over 300 million Euros with the Italian Ministry of Defence for nine M-346, bringing the number of aircraft ordered by Italy to 18.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
In February 2018, the Italian Air Force received its 18th M-346, concluding the force's acquisition program.<ref name="ItalyCompleteJanes">Template:Cite web</ref> In 2019, four more M-346 were delivered to the newly formed Italian Air Force/Leonardo International Flight Training School (IFTS) at Galatina Air Base.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
On 12 September 2024, the Italian Air Force's aerobatic team Frecce Tricolori unveiled the M-346 as its new aircraft to replace the Aermacchi MB-339-A/PAN, alongside a new livery designed by Pininfarina.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Singapore Air Force
In July 2010, the M-346 was selected by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) to replace the ST Aerospace A-4SU Super Skyhawks in the Advanced Jet Training (AJT) role, based at BA 120 Cazaux Air Base in France.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In a press release by the Singaporean Ministry of Defence on 28 September 2010, ST Aerospace was awarded the contract to acquire twelve M-346 and a ground-based training system on behalf of RSAF. As stipulated in the contract, ST Aerospace acts as the main contractor in the maintenance of the aircraft after delivery by Alenia Aermacchi while Boeing supplies the training system.<ref name="CNA">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite press release</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The RSAF holds the distinction of being the first export customer for the type.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/>
Israeli Air Force
On 16 February 2012, the M-346 was selected by the Israeli Air Force (IAF) in an exchange deal, in which Israel will build a reconnaissance satellite and AWACs systems<ref>Israel delivers advanced G-550 aircraft to Italy 19 Dec, 2016, Globes correspondent</ref> for Italy in return for the planes.<ref name="timesofisrael.com">Final plane in billion-dollar deal with Italy lands in Israel BY ILAN BEN ZION July 21, 2016, Times of Israel</ref><ref>Israel to buy Italy's M-346 jet trainer for $1b Template:Webarchive 16/02/2012, 16:45</ref> It will operate as the IAF's main training jet to replace the McDonnell Douglas A-4H/N Skyhawk, which has served the IAF for over 40 years.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="JPost">Template:Cite news</ref> On 19 July 2012, a contract was signed between Alenia Aermacchi and the Israeli Ministry of Defence to supply 30 M-346s, with the first delivery expected in the middle of 2014.<ref name="AA1">Template:Cite press release</ref> The Israeli Air Force announced on 2 July 2013 that in Israeli service the M-346 would be named the Lavi, reusing the name given to the cancelled IAI Lavi.<ref>Egozi, Arie. "Israel's Lavi reborn as renamed M-346." Flight International, 2 July 2013.</ref> The IAF's first M-346 was rolled out in a ceremony at Alenia Aermacchi's factory in Venegono Superiore on March 20, 2014.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Polish Air Force
On 23 December 2013, it was announced that Poland had selected the M-346 to meet a requirement for an advanced jet trainer.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> A contract for eight aircraft was signed on 27 February 2014.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> The first two M-346s arrived at Dęblin in November 2016.<ref name="flightglobal.com">Template:Cite web</ref> The aircraft were initially not officially accepted due to non-compliance with contract specifications.<ref name="dlapilota.pl">Template:Cite web</ref> The delivery deadline was originally November 2016, but delays meant delivery and acceptance was not complete until 22 December 2017.<ref name="PolskaZbrojna">Template:Cite web</ref>
In December 2017, Poland's Ministry of National Defence announced it was seeking financial penalties from Leonardo of up to 100 million zlotys (U.S. $28 million) over the delays. Additionally, the ministry had complained that the M-346 was not fully capable of simulating certain weapon systems for training purposes.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> On 19 November 2018, Leonardo's Aircraft Division together with Elbit Systems completed delivery of M-346 Full Mission Simulators and Flight Training Devices to the Polish Air Force. This was initially scheduled to be completed by November 2016.<ref name="Air Recognition">Template:Cite web</ref>
In March 2018, Poland signed for an additional four M-346s and support package, plus options for a further four aircraft, and a support package.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="Herk">Template:Cite web</ref> In December 2018, Poland signed for the additional four aircraft, as well as upgrades to the existing fleet of eight. Deliveries and upgrade work for the total of 16 M-346 is expected to run into 2022.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>Template:Update inline
On July 12, 2024, a Polish Air Force M-346 Demo Team jet crashed during its flying display near Gdynia. Pilot Maj. Robert “Killer” Jeł lost his life in the crash.<ref name="auto1">Template:Cite web</ref>
Others
Argentina
In October 2016, the Argentine Air Force also evaluated the M-346 as a potential combat fighter to replace the Dassault Mirage III and Mirage 5 aircraft it had retired in 2015, as well as the Douglas A-4AR aircraft that remain in service with only limited capability. Argentina is speculated to be interested in ten to twelve aircraft.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Azerbaijan
On 20 February 2020, the president of Azerbaijan announced that the country would buy an undisclosed number of M-346s. The Azerbaijani Air and Air Defence Force has a requirement to augment and replace its Soviet-era Mikoyan MiG-29, Sukhoi Su-25, and Aero L-39 Albatros jets.<ref name=":0">Template:Cite web</ref> The number of aircraft to be purchased is between 10 and 25 (10 plus an option for 15).<ref name=":1">Template:Cite web</ref> Azerbaijani military leaders also considered the Yak-130 for the trainer requirement but selected the M-346 despite its higher price because of its lighter weight and higher maneuverability and problems with manufacturing of the engines for Yak-130.<ref name=":1" />
Brazil
In July 2024, during the 2024 edition of the Farnborough International Airshow, Leonardo presented and offered to Brazil the new variant Block 20, as a candidate for the Brazilian Air Force's process of selection for a light attack jet to replace the older AMX attack jet. The aircraft was evaluated by the MoD minister José Múcio and the air force commander Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In November 2024, during the visit to Brazil by the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, she will meet Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to discuss the sale of 24 M-346s to the Brazilian Air Force, other six aircraft to the Brazilian Navy, and other related accords.<ref name="BR">Template:Cite web</ref>
Ireland
In July 2021, Leonardo made a submission to the Irish Commission on the Defence Forces presenting the M-346FA as a light multi-role fighter and advanced trainer for the Irish Air Corps. The commission has multiple tasks, including determining the future capability requirements for the Irish Defence Forces. Currently, the Irish Air Corps has a very limited air combat capability with eight Pilatus PC-9M training/light attack aircraft. The M-346FA could be a cheaper alternative to more expensive fighters and would be Ireland's first combat jet aircraft since the retirement of the six Fouga CM.170 Magister aircraft in 1999. In comparison to Ireland's current air combat capability, the M-346FA would be considered by many to be a step up, introducing features such as air-to-air missiles and onboard radar.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
UAE
The M-346 was named the winner of a competition by the United Arab Emirates at the IDEX 2009 defense show in Abu Dhabi on 25 February 2009.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> The official said the order involved delivery of 48 aircraft to be used for pilot training and light attack duties. A final request for proposals in 2010 had set the requirement at 20 trainers, 20 aircraft for combat duties, and the remainder would go toward the creation of an aerobatic team. However, by January 2010, negotiations to sign a contract had reportedly stalled over specifications.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref> On 18 November 2011, the prototype, which had been on display at the Dubai Airshow, crashed after departing Dubai on return to Italy.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
United States Air Force
Alenia Aermacchi submitted the M-346 for the United States Air Force's T-X program to replace the aging Northrop T-38 Talon, rebranding it as the Leonardo DRS T-100 Integrated Training System. Alenia originally intended to be the prime contractor, anticipating moving the final assembly location from Italy to the United States if the bid succeeded. About 350 aircraft were expected to be ordered, with further purchases leading to over 1,000 aircraft being purchased overall.<ref name= "t38 repla">Template:Cite web</ref> In January 2013, Alenia Aermacchi signed a letter of intent with General Dynamics C4 Systems, who intended to serve as the prime contractor for the T-X bid; however, General Dynamics announced their withdrawal in March 2015.<ref>Template:Citation.</ref><ref>Mehta, Aaron."GD Withdraws as T-100 Prime Contractor." Defense News, 27 March 2015.</ref> On January 1, 2016, Alenia Aermacchi was absorbed into Leonardo S.p.A. In February 2016, it was announced that Raytheon, which would serve as the prime contractor, had teamed up with Leonardo to offer an advanced variant of the M-346 for the T-X program called the T-100.<ref>"Raytheon Team to Deliver Next-Generation Jet Trainer; Finmeccanica, CAE USA and Honeywell Join Raytheon to Provide Fully Integrated Solution." Raytheon Co., 22 February 2016.</ref>
On 25 January 2017, Raytheon announced that it had withdrawn as prime contractor and American partner in the T-X competition.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> One of the sticking points had been price per unit: at the time the M-346 had a flyaway cost of $25 million, but Raytheon wanted Leonardo to reduce that by 30%.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> On 8 February 2017, Leonardo confirmed that it would remain in the T-X competition alone, with Leonardo DRS, its American subsidiary, serving as prime contractor.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In September 2017, it was announced that the T-X program had selected the rival Boeing T-7 Red Hawk submission instead.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
On the 22nd of August 2025 the Italian Air Force and the United States Air Force signed the “Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Flight Training of the USAF Military Personnel in Italy” which will see U.S. student pilots, for the first time in history, be trained in a foreign NATO pilot school, the International Flight Training School (IFTS) on the M-346.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The first course with ten USAF pilots was scheduled to start on September 8, 2025, and should be completed by June 2026, leading the students to the USAF military wings.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
United States Navy
The M-346 is being offered to the United States Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) competition to replace the aging McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk by Leonardo (company) with Textron Aviation Defense being the prime contractor for the bid.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> On July 28, 2025, Textron announced it will offer a US-made version of the Italian light jet under the designation Beechcraft M-346N.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The offer has been described to have been adapted to the Navy's revised requirements, conducting only Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP) approaches to wave off, thereby obviating the need for a tailhook, catapult launch bar, or extensive structural modifications for arrested carrier operations. This focus on FCLP-only training aligns with the fifth USN Request for Information (RFI) released on March 31, 2025.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Eurotraining
The Advance European Pilot Training (AEPTJ) program – unofficially called Eurotraining – a consortium of twelve European nations to give advance & lead-in fighter training with a common core course and training provided by a common aircraft – has contacted Alenia Aermacchi through the European Defence agency in 2010, for further information on the M-346.<ref>Peruzzi, Luca. "M-346 partners make case for Eurotraining deal." Flight International, 22 June 2010.</ref> In May 2013, Alenia Aermacchi announced that the AEPTJ held a low priority for the firm and that "...progress has been slow."<ref>Template:Citation.</ref>
Variants
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- M-346
- Designation for the basic type.
- T-346A
- Italian military designation from 2012 for the M-346.<ref name= "dgaa">Template:Cite web</ref>
- M-346LCA (Light Combat Aircraft)
- Armed variant offered to Poland as a replacement for aging Su-22.<ref name="LCAforPoland">Template:Cite web</ref> Designation no longer in use.<ref name=":2" />
- M-346FT (Fighter Trainer)
- Multirole variant capable of switching between training and combat operations. New features include a new tactical datalink system and different armament capability, but do not include physical changes to the hardware.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- M-346FA (Fighter Attack)
- Multirole variant capable of air-to-air and air-to-surface combat with a 3 tonne payload spread over seven hardpoints, advanced Grifo-M346 radar<ref name=":2" /> radar, countermeasures and stealth features including engine intake grids and radar-absorbing coatings on the canopy and wing leading edge. It is being marketed as a light attack aircraft also suitable for aggressor and companion training purposes. The aircraft was revealed on June 18, 2017, in a static display at that year's Paris Air Show. The aircraft is being marketed for export to South American and East Asian countries, and is claimed to be able to carry out operational missions at far lower costs than those of front-line fighters.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- T-100
- Designation used for the United States Air Force's T-X program.<ref name= "t38 repla"/>
- M-346N ITS
- Proposed carrier-based advanced jet trainer for the United States Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) competition to replace the T-45 Goshawk. "ITS" stands for "Integrated Training System". Leonardo is collaborating with Textron Aviation in the pitch. It is competing with the Lockheed Martin-KAI TF-50N and a navalised variant of the Boeing-Saab AB T-7 Red Hawk.<ref name="FlightGlobal 28Mar24">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="AvWeek 7Sep23">Template:Cite web</ref>
- M-346FGA (Fighter Ground Attack)
- Designation of multirole variant used for the Nigerian Air Force.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Operators
Current operators
Training aircraft
- Template:Flag (10 in service)
- The Hellenic Air Force has ten M-346 Block 5+ "Silver Hawks".<ref name="auto3">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The first two delivered in May 2023, all delivered by September 2025.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>https://www.haf.gr/en/equipment/m-346-block-5/ Template:Bare URL inline</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- Template:Flag (30)
- The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has 30 trainers in operation, locally designated M-346i "Lavi". Ordered in 2012, delivered from 2014.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- The deal was made with common interest, Italy ordered three Israeli Gulfstream E-550A CAEW AEW&C aircraft and reconnaissance satellites being built by Israel Aerospace Industries.<ref name="timesofisrael.com"/>
- Template:Flag (22 in service, 20 on order)
- Italy operates 42 T-346, in two different categories:
- Italian Air Force – 18 designated T-346A, deliveries completed February 2018;<ref name="ItalyCompleteJanes" /> 20 on order by 2024 (15 for PAN - Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale "Frecce Tricolori" and 5 for IFTS)<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- International Flight Training School (run by Italian Air Force and Leonardo) – 4 delivered as of May 2020.
- Template:Flag (16 delivered, 1 crashed)
- The Polish Air Force received 16 aircraft, designated M-346 "Bielik" (operated at 41st Training Air Base in Dęblin)<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="Herk2">Template:Cite web</ref>
- Eight ordered in 2014 with an option for four aircraft,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> delivered between November 2016 and October 2017<ref name=":3">Template:Cite web</ref>
- Four contracted in March 2018 with an option for four aircraft, delivered between October and November 2020<ref name=":3" />
- Four contracted in February 2021,<ref name=":3" /> delivered in December 2022<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- Of the 16 delivered, 1 crashed in 2024.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- Template:QAT (6)
- The Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) operates six M-346 trainers as part of an agreement in 2010 with Leonardo and the Italian Air Force to be used at the International Flight Training School for Phase 4 training for Qatari pilots.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- Three delivered as of January 2022<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- All delivered as of 2024<ref>https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 Template:Bare URL inline</ref>
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- The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has twelve trainers in service, based in Cazaux Air Base, France (Advanced Jet Trainer Programme)<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The order was made in September 2010 and the delivery in 2013-2014.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- The Turkmen Air Force ordered four M-346 FA and two M-346DR/FT.<ref name="auto3"/><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Orders
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- The Austrian Air Force ordered twelve M-346FA.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Deliveries will be in two batches of six aircraft and, in addition, there are options for two further batches of six aircraft each. In the ex ante notice by the Italian Ministry of Defense<ref>https://www.difesa.it/assets/allegati/63000/dac0000047del05052025.pdf Template:Bare URL PDF</ref> it is specified that the order will include armaments such as the 20mm Nexter gun pod, LAU32 rocket launchers, active self-protection SPEAR AECM EW pods from Elbit Systems, Full Mission Simulators and the integration of the Link 16 and the Air-to-air IRIS-T missile.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- In 2021, the Nigerian Air Force ordered twelve M-346FA (+ twelve options).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The deal was reportedly $1.2 billion for twenty-four M-346 aircraft.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In October 2024, it was confirmed that the order was for twenty-four aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2025.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Potential operators
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- The Azerbaijani Air Force signed a letter of intent for 15 M-346 aircraft signed in February 2020.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- Possible replacement of Brazilian AMX A-1M Ghibli with 24 M-346s for the Brazilian Air Force. Other six aircraft to the Brazilian Navy.<ref name="BR"/>
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- The M-346 FA has been pre-selected over the KAI FA-50 Golden Eagle, but it is unclear if the purchase will be made as the Colombian Air Force is also looking to purchase an air superiority capable fighter.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- The M-346 Block 20 is speculated to be a contender to replace the aging Kawasaki T-4. Some Japanese fighter pilots began flying the M-346 with the International Flight Training School.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
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- Possible replacement of Spanish Northrop F-5BMs.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
- Although Spain signed a memorandum for cooperation in December 2024 for the TAI Hürjet, Leonardo continues to support the sale of the M-346 to the Spanish Air Force.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> In fact, a study by the University Center for Defense (CUD) in San Javier, Murcia, concluded in 2020 that this aircraft is the best option, after comparing it against other market options like the KAI T-50 and the Yak-130. The authors applied the Fuzzy Reference Ideal Method to rank advanced military trainer aircraft.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>
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- On July 31, 2025 a delegation from Leonardo, offered the M-346 as a replacement for the Aero L-59 Super Albatros.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- The M-346N is being offered by Leonardo (company) and Textron as a possible replacement for the McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk for the U.S. Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
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- As part of the Fuerza Aérea Uruguaya modernization efforts, Uruguay has shown interest in purchasing at least six new radar-equipped aircraft to replace its Cessna A-37; according to sources within the force, the M-346 is favored over the Hongdu L-15.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Accidents and incidents
- On 11 May 2013, an Alenia-operated M-346 crashed near the village of Piana Crixia, in Val Bormida, between the provinces of Cuneo and Savona, Italy, during a test flight. The pilot was able to eject successfully and survived the crash, but received serious injuries after jumping from the tree where his parachute had been entangled.<ref name="auto">Template:Citation.</ref> The type was grounded for more than three months while the cause of the crash was investigated.<ref>Pocock, Chris. "M346 Jet Trainer Still Grounded After Second Crash." AIN Online, 9 August 2014.</ref>
- On 12 July 2024, a Polish Air Force M-346 Bielik crashed near Gdynia. The pilot was killed.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="auto1"/>
Specifications (M-346)
See also
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References
External links
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