Aermacchi M-346 Master

The Aermacchi M-346 Master is operated by several air forces, including the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) and the Republic of Singapore Air Force. Leonardo (formerly Alenia Aermacchi) has also exported the aircraft to countries like Israel and Poland. It is specifically designed as an advanced lead-in fighter trainer.

The aircraft utilizes a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system and a fly-by-wire control system that can be programmed to emulate the flight characteristics of various fighters. This allows trainee pilots to experience transonic flight without logging hours on more expensive operational combat aircraft. The jet successfully completed its first flight in 2004.

The Aermacchi M-346 and the Russian Yakovlev Yak-130 were both developed from a joint venture between Aermacchi and Yakovlev before the companies split in the early 2000s. While they share a similar aerodynamic design, the M-346 features entirely Western avionics and systems. This makes the M-346 compliant with NATO standards.

Yes, the aircraft can be configured for light combat missions, often referred to as the M-346FA (Fighter Attack) variant. This version is equipped with hardpoints for air-to-air and air-to-ground ordnance, allowing it to perform close air support. It retains its primary role as an advanced jet trainer.