Austria has taken an important step towards modernising its air force, Procurement of 12 Leonardo M-346FA (Fighter Attack) aircraft with Italy for State to State (G2G) agreement This decision was announced in a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed in Vienna and Rome at the end of 2024. This agreement reflects Austria’s aim to strengthen its defence capabilities and to advance its air fleet economically and technologically.
Details and Scope of the Agreement
The preliminary protocol signed by the Aircraft and Airworthiness Directorate (DAAA) of the Italian General Secretariat of Defence states that Austria will initially supply 12 M-346FA aircraft and will also an option for 12 aircraft in two lots of six confirmed that it has been found. This comprehensive procurement package includes aircraft as well as advanced training and support systems:
- A Complete Education System: Complete with full mission simulator (FMS) and Unit Level Training Device (ULTD).
- Equipment for Fighter Attack Configuration: 8 sets of special equipment.
- Head Mounted Display System (HMD): 12 pieces.
- Training and Simulation Systems: Computer Based Training (CBT) and simulation systems.
- Live-Virtual-Fictional (LVC) Capability: With real-time monitoring station.
- Task Planning and Feedback Systems.
- Integrations: Link 16 and IRIS-T missile integration.
- Ammunitions: Nexter 20 mm cannon pods, LAU32 rocket launchers and SPEAR AECM pods.
The Italian Ministry of Defense will sign a contract with Leonardo SpA Aircraft Division on behalf of Austria, with the costs of the entire operation being covered by Austria. The supply is expected to be around 1 billion euros and the first deliveries are worth It will start from 2027 The report says.
Long-Term Strategic Collaboration
This agreement is an important part of the framework of strategic military cooperation between Italy and Austria, which was initiated with the “Military Cooperation Memorandum” signed on October 19, 2001. This cooperation, which was embodied in a technical agreement in the field of military helicopters in 2020, has now expanded to include advanced training aircraft with attack capabilities.
The program may be further expanded in the future to include “further development of the M-21 weapon system, related weapon systems, support and training through the use of new technologies and artificial intelligence,” as foreseen by the Implementing Regulation signed on February 2025, 346.
M-346FA: Synthesis of Advanced Training and Operational Capabilities
M-346FA, represents a combat version of the already known M-346 advanced trainer aircraft. This “Fighter Attack” version retains all the training capabilities of the original model, while adding significant operational capabilities. a multitasking platform It becomes.
The aircraft has seven external payload points and Up to 3.000 kg payload capacity Thanks to its capabilities, it can be used both as an advanced trainer aircraft and as a light combat aircraft for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The FA version is equipped with a multi-mode radar, self-protection system and the ability to integrate with precision-guided weapons.
Its low operating costs and versatility compared to front-line fighters make the M-346FA particularly suitable for countries like Austria that want to modernize their air fleet with economically sustainable and technologically advanced platforms. The acquisition is also important as it provides Austria with a modern solution to replace its aging Saab 105 trainer jets.
A Major Success for the Italian Defense Industry
This agreement represents a major commercial success for Leonardo and the Italian aerospace industry in general. Austria has joined the M-346 suppliers after Italy, Israel, Singapore, Poland, Qatar, Turkmenistan and Nigeria. This once again demonstrates Leonardo’s competitiveness in the global market and the international success of the M-346 series.
