The Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) has taken a long-awaited step by introducing a new aircraft that will operate alongside the firm's better-known M-346 advanced trainer aircraft. Leonardo M-345 officially put into service a new basic jet trainer aircraft called
M-345 Mission Statement and Current Status
The M-345 was launched on Thursday by the Air Force at the Galatina air base in southern Italy. It was put into service at a ceremony held at the 61st Fleet. This new jet is a long-serving It will replace the MB-339.
According to the statement made by the Air Force, so far 18 M-345 aircraft ordered and these planes seven were delivered. From what was delivered four of which completed operational test and evaluation activities in March It was stated that four instructors are currently receiving training on this new jet.
M-345 is the flight training of pilots. Phases 2 and 3 After completion of these phases, pilots will begin flying the M-346 for more advanced training phases.
General Manager of Leonardo Aviation Division Stefano Bortoli“With the integration of the M-345 into the training curriculum of the armed forces, which already includes the M-346 for more advanced training phases, the Italian Air Force will have the most modern fixed-wing military training system in Europe,” he said.
Technical Specifications and Multi-Purpose Use Potential
With Williams FJ44-4M-34 turbofan engine equipped with M-345, At an altitude of 20 thousand feet, a speed of 787 kilometers per hour Leonardo claims the jet offers superior performance to a high-end turbo-prop aircraft, at the same operating cost.
In the cockpit of the aircraft, to facilitate the training of pilots Multi-Function Display (MFD) with three color touch screens and one Head-Up Display (HUD) Features.
Leonardo also said that the aircraft was not just a training platform, “can undertake light operational roles” M-345 also states, A payload capacity of over 1.000 kg on four underwing pylons have. Also, with infrared-guided air-to-air missiles, 500-pound bombs, rocket pods and cannons This suggests that Leonardo will market the M-346 for training as well as light fighter duties, just as it has successfully sold a light fighter version of the M-345.
The M-345 has been long-awaited to enter service, with Italy having completed an order for 2019 aircraft in 18. The type was initially designed to replace the MB339 aircraft used by the Italian Air Force’s aerobatic flight team, but this role has now been given to the M-346.
