Indian Defence Review

M-346 Trainer Aircraft from Alenia Aermacchi

In March this year, at its plant in Venegono Superiore in Italy, Alenia Aermacchi rolled out the first M-346 advanced trainer aircraft out for the Israeli Air and Space Force. The M-346 is equipped with fully digital flight controls and avionics designed to provide lead-in training for Israeli fighter pilots. The Israeli Ministry of Defence (IMOD) is looking to use the M-346 to replace its fleet of TA-4 Skyhawk trainer aircraft. Poland recently became the fourth customer for the M-346, following Italy, Singapore and Israel. First delivery to the IMOD is expected in the middle of this year. Currently, the M-346 is in service with both the Air Forces of Italy and Singapore.