Leonardo’s M-346 is Frecce Tricolori’s new aircraft of choice
126 units sold globally
The Italian Air Force officially unveiled the M-346 jet trainer as the future aircraft for the Frecce Tricolori (Italy’s national aerobatic team) during a ceremony on September 12, 2024, in Istrana, Treviso.
The event coincided with the Frecce Tricolori’s return from their American tour and showcased the M-346 adorned with the team’s iconic livery.
The M-346, produced by Leonardo, is acclaimed as the world’s most advanced trainer jet. With 126 units sold globally and over 125,000 flight hours logged, this state-of-the-art aircraft has proven its mettle.
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Notably, it has been integral to the International Flight Training School in Decimomannu, Sardinia—a pioneering institution for advanced military pilot training, a product of Leonardo’s collaboration with the Italian Air Force.
This transonic twin-engine, tandem-seat aircraft is set to usher the Frecce Tricolori into a new era of aerobatic excellence. Its advanced features include fully digital flight controls, a fly-by-wire system with quadruple redundancy, and a sophisticated human-machine interface. The M-346 offers exceptional performance and manoeuvrability, making it an ideal choice for the aerobatic team.
Advanced capabilities
The M-346’s advanced capabilities extend beyond its flight performance. It integrates a comprehensive training system that blends natural and virtual environments, offering a highly realistic training experience.
Critical components of this system include an Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS) that mimics the sensors and armaments of fighter planes; a Ground-Based Training System (GBTS) with diverse simulation and multimedia tools; and an Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) service for efficient fleet and simulator management.
This cutting-edge training system supports a range of scenarios, including Live (actual flight), Virtual (simulated environments), and Constructive (computer-generated forces and threats). This approach allows pilots to train in complex, networked environments, whether they are airborne or utilising simulators.
The M-346 is already in service with several air forces worldwide, including Italy, Singapore, Israel, Poland, Qatar, and Greece. Additionally, it serves as a light fighter for Turkmenistan and Nigeria. It is a crucial training asset for pilots from numerous other countries who train at the International Flight Training School in Decimomannu.
Leonardo plans to produce the M-346 for the Frecce Tricolori with specifications tailored to the Italian Air Force’s needs. The aircraft’s evolution continues with the upcoming Block 20 configuration, introducing new digital functions and artificial intelligence to enhance training effectiveness.
The European market for advanced training aircraft is projected to require over 400 new planes over the next two decades, with an estimated investment of approximately 12 billion euros in pilot training services—Leonardo’s ongoing advancements and commitment to excellence position the M-346 at the forefront of this critical sector.
With its rich legacy in trainer aircraft design spanning over 70 years and 2,000 aircraft sold to more than 40 countries, Leonardo is a leading force in developing cutting-edge aviation training solutions.
Featured image: Leonardo will produce the M-346 for the Frecce Tricolori with specifications tailored to the Italian Air Force’s needs. Credit: Leonardo
Last Updated on 3 months by Arnold Pinto
