Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master

{{Short description|Military training aircraft}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2023}} {{Infobox aircraft | name = M-346 Master | image = File:Aermacchi M-346 (code MT55219) arrives RIAT Fairford 13July2017.jpg | caption = An M-346FA carrying AIM-9 air-to-air missiles arrives at the 2017 Royal International Air Tattoo. | type = Jet trainer and light combat aircraft | national_origin = Italy | manufacturer = Alenia Aermacchi<br />Leonardo S.p.A. | designer = | first_flight = 15 July 2004 | introduction = September 2015 | retired = | primary_user = Italian Air Force<!-- List only one user; for military aircraft, this is a nation or a service arm. Please do not add flag templates, as they limit horizontal space. --> | more_users = Israeli Air Force<br />Polish Air Force<br />Republic of Singapore Air Force<br />Hellenic Air Force<!-- Limited to THREE (3) "more users" here (4 total users). List users with {{plainlist}} or {{unbulleted list}}. --> | number_built = 165 ordered<br />103 delivered (September 2025)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.onalert.gr/eksoplismoi/ta-nea-gerakia-allazoyn-ta-dedomena-i-ekpaideysi-sta-m-346-kai-ta-entyposiaka-apotelesmata-sta-smet/640519// |title=Τα νέα «γεράκια» αλλάζουν τα δεδομένα: Η εκπαίδευση στα M-346 και τα εντυπωσιακά αποτελέσματα στα ΣΜΕΤ |website=OnAlert.gr |language=Greek |date=23 September 2025 |access-date=27 February 2026}}</ref> | status = In service | produced = 2004–present | developed_from = Yak/AEM-130<ref>{{cite book |last=Sotgiu |first=Marco |date=2011 |title=M-346. Biografia di un aereo |url=https://www.ibs.it/m-346-biografia-di-aereo-libro-marco-sotgiu/e/9788802084138 |location=Turin, Italy |publisher=UTET |page=195 |isbn=9788802084138 |access-date=12 July 2025}}</ref> | variants = }}

The '''Aermacchi M-346 Master''' is a family of military twin-engine transonic advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft. Originally co-developed with Yakovlev as the '''Yak/AEM-130''', the partnership was dissolved in 2000 and then Alenia Aermacchi proceeded to separately develop the M-346 Master, while Yakovlev continued work on the Yakovlev Yak-130. The first flight of the M-346 was performed in 2004. The M-346 is currently in operation with the air forces of Italy, Israel, Singapore, Greece, Qatar, Turkmenistan, and Poland. In 2017 the manufacturer rebranded as Leonardo.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Leonardo: filing of Articles of Association|url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/statuto-sociale-articles-association |access-date=2021-04-14 |website= leonardocompany.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Development== ===Background=== In 1992, Aermacchi signed a cooperation agreement with Yakovlev to provide financial and technical support for the new trainer that the firm had been developing since 1991 for the Russian Air Force in competition with the Mikoyan MiG-AT. Aermacchi also gained the right to modify and market the aircraft for the Western market.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moxon |first=Julian |date=1996-08-06 |location=Paris |title=Aermacchi proves Yak-130/AEM performance|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/aermacchi-proves-yak-130/aem-performance/6223.article |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=FlightGlobal |language=en |url-access=registration }}</ref> The resulting aircraft first flew in 1996 and was brought to Italy the following year to replace the aging MB-339. By this point, the aircraft was being marketed as the ''Yak/AEM-130''. In February 1996, Russia provided initial funding for the Yak/AEM-130 and pledged to purchase up to 200 aircraft for the Russian Air Force.<ref>[http://aviationweek.com/awin/yakaermacchi-trainer-funds-released-russia-will-buy-200 "Yak/Aermacchi trainer funds released; Russia will buy up to 200."] ''Aviation Week'', 27 February 1996.</ref>

[[File:Yakovlev Yak-130D, Yakovlev Design Bureau AN1287058.jpg|thumb|Yak/AEM-130 prototype landing at M. R. Štefánik Airport in 1999]]

In October 1998, it was reported that the venture was increasingly becoming an Italian-led effort due to a lack of financial support on the part of Russia.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/italy-studies-the-yakaem-130-as-russia-falters-44061/ "Italy studies the Yak/AEM-130 as Russia falters."] ''Flight International'', 21 October 1998.</ref> By July 2000, Aermacchi held a 50% stake in the development programme, and Yakovlev and Sokol had a 25% share each.<ref name= "engine 2000">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/f124-engine-turns-yak-130-into-the-aermacchi-346-68352/ "F124 engine turns Yak-130 into the Aermacchi 346."] ''Flight International'', 25 July 2000.</ref> In mid-2000, it was announced that differences in priorities between the two firms, and a lack of financial backing from the programme's Russian participants, had brought about an end to the partnership and that each firm would pursue development of the aircraft independently; Yakovlev received US$77&nbsp;million in the form of a partial write-off of the USSR/Russian debt towards Italy, and for the legal right to use some of the technical documents of the aircraft.<ref name=IBT_2002>{{Cite journal|last=Butowski|first=Piotr|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-87852333.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924164825/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-87852333.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 September 2015|title=Russian military trainer strategy falls into place; the selection of the Yak-130 marks an important step towards replacing the country's aging fleet of L-39Cs. Things are moving in the simulator business, too|journal=Interavia Business & Technology|publisher=Aerospace Media Publishing|date=1 May 2002|issn=1423-3215|access-date=22 August 2015|url-access=}}</ref><ref name= "russ replace">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aermacchi-assembles-m-346-trainer-team-to-replace-ru-69047/ "Aermacchi assembles M-346 trainer team to replace Russians."] ''Flight International'', 1 August 2000.</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Sotgiu |first=Marco |title=M-346: Biografia di un aereo |publisher=UTET Cultura |year=2012 |isbn=8802084130 |edition=1st |location=Italy |pages=80-97 |language=Italian |trans-title=M-346: biography of an airplane}}</ref> Yakovlev would be able to sell the Yak-130 to countries such as those in the Commonwealth of Independent States, India, Slovakia and Algeria, while Aermacchi would be able to sell the M-346 to NATO countries, among others.<ref name=IBT_2002/>

The M-346 is a highly modified version of the aircraft that was being developed under the joint venture. It uses equipment exclusively from Western manufacturers, such as the digital flight control system being developed by a collaboration between Teleavio, Marconi Italiana and BAE Systems.<ref name= "russ replace"/> In July 2000, Aermacchi selected the Honeywell F124 turbofan engine to power the type in place of the originally intended Lotarev DV-2S powerplant.<ref name= "engine 2000"/><ref>Doyle, Andrew. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aermacchi-may-seek-new-engine-for-yak-130-61400/ "Aermacchi may seek new engine for Yak-130."] ''Flight International'', 1 February 2000.</ref> In 2004, a contract for the development of a full-mission simulator for the M-346 was awarded to CAE.<ref>{{Citation|type=press release |url=http://www.cae.com/www2004/News_Room/ |year=2004 |title=CAE wins contract for the development and supply of Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 simulator |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060324123919/http://www.cae.com/www2004/News_Room/ |archive-date=2006-03-24}}.</ref> Further production contracts for CAE's full-mission simulator have since been issued.<ref>[http://www.cae.com/CAE-wins-defence-contracts-valued-at-approximately-C220-million/ "CAE wins defence contracts valued at approximately C$220 million."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305110415/http://www.cae.com/CAE-wins-defence-contracts-valued-at-approximately-C220-million/ |date=2016-03-05}} ''CAE'', 8 April 2016.</ref>

===Into flight=== On 7 June 2003, the first M-346 prototype rolled out; ground testing commenced shortly thereafter. On 15 July 2004, the first prototype conducted its maiden flight.<ref name= "nato earlyflights"/>

In January 2005, the Greek Ministry of Defence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to become a partner in the programme, followed by an industrial cooperation agreement between Aermacchi and Hellenic Aerospace Industry in 2006.<ref>Peruzzi, Luca. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/greeces-hai-snatches-stake-in-m346-trainer-programme-204253/ "Greece's HAI snatches stake in M346 trainer programme."] ''Flight International'', 24 January 2006.</ref> In March 2008, the Chilean ENAER signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Alenia Aermacchi at the FIDAE air show.<ref>{{Citation|newspaper=Dedalo news |url=http://www.dedalonews.it/it/index.php/03/2008/alenia-aermacchi-e-la-cilena-enaer-siglano-mou-per-m-346-e-m-311/ |place=IT |date=Mar 2008 |title=Alenia Aermacchi e Lacilena Enaer siglano MOU per M.346 e M.311 |trans-title=ENAER signed a Memorandum of Understanding |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303212257/http://www.dedalonews.it/it/index.php/03/2008/alenia-aermacchi-e-la-cilena-enaer-siglano-mou-per-m-346-e-m-311/ |archive-date=2009-03-03}}.</ref>

thumb|M-346 prototype 002 at Le Bourget airshow, 2005 On 10 April 2008, the first Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP-00) aircraft, produced in the final configuration (new landing gear and air brake, more composite parts), was rolled out.<ref name="aer ne 2008">{{Citation |place= IT |year= 2008 |publisher= Aermacchi |type= press release |url= http://www.aermacchi.it/institutional/media-centre/press-release/press-release-2008/alenia-aermacchi-rolls-out-first-pre-ser |title= Alenia Aermacchi Industrial Baseline Configuration roll outi |url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080507043504/http://www.aermacchi.it/institutional/media-centre/press-release/press-release-2008/alenia-aermacchi-rolls-out-first-pre-ser |archive-date= 2008-05-07}}.</ref> On 18 December 2008, Aermacchi announced that the M-346 had attained a maximum speed of Mach 1.15 (1,255&nbsp;km/h, 678 knots, 780&nbsp;mph), claiming the occasion to be the first in which an all-Italian built aircraft had broken the sound barrier in 50 years.<ref name="AAPR1">{{cite press release|title=The Aermacchi M-346 advanced trainer breaks the sound barrier. After 50 years an all-Italian aircraft flies at Mach 1 |publisher=Alenia Aermacchi |year=2008 |url=http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/Eng/Media/news/Documents/new664_4.pdf |access-date=19 February 2012}}{{dead link|date=June 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}</ref>

In May 2008, Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on the marketing, sales, training and support of two Aermacchi trainer aircraft, the M-346 and the M-311.<ref>{{Citation |newspaper= Defense News |url= https://www.europeanairshows.co.uk/aviation-anniversaries/july/leonardo-m-346-master-first-flight |title= Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}.</ref>

On 20 June 2011, a Military Type Certification was granted to Alenia Aermacchi for the M-346 Master by the General Directorate for Aeronautical Armaments of the Italian Ministry of Defence in Rome. Throughout the certification process, the M-346 development aircraft made 180 test flights, totalling 200 flights across the course of the previous five months, during which over 3,300 test points were completed.<ref name= "AFM282">"M-346 Master Gains Military Certification" ''Air Forces Monthly'' (Key Publishing), Issue 282, September 2011, pp. 10. ISSN 0955-7091. Retrieved 30 September 2011.</ref>

===Further development=== In the advanced jet trainer role, the original M-346 model is unarmed; however, in November 2015, it was reported that Alenia Aermacchi was close to finalising a combat-capable dual-role variant of the aircraft.<ref name="dualRole">{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/alenia-aermacchi-sets-dual-role-path-for-m-346-416525/ |title=Alenia Aermacchi sets dual-role path for M-346 |publisher=FlightGlobal |date=9 September 2015 |access-date=21 November 2015}}</ref> During late 2017, a series of armed tests involving the AIM-9L missiles took place.<ref name="IRISTtests">{{cite web |url=http://theaviationist.com/2014/10/29/m346-iris-t-missile/ |title=M-346 Master is flying with the AIM-9 replacement: the IRIS-T missile |publisher=The Aviationist |date=29 October 2014 |access-date=21 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.airpressonline.it/28266/28266/?repeat=w3tc |title=airpressonline.it |website= airpressonline.it |access-date=22 April 2023}}</ref> In 2015, an armed variant, designated as the M-346 LCA (Light Combat Aircraft), was offered to Poland; this reportedly included a capability of operating the Brimstone air-to-ground missile.<ref name="dualRole"/><ref name="LCAforPoland"/>

The armed variant is under development, designated M-346FA. The first pre-series aircraft has flown from Venegono airfield in July 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Staff|first=Blog Before Flight|title=Leonardo's M-346 Fighter Attack embarks on maiden flight equipped with Grifo radar|url=https://www.blogbeforeflight.net/2020/07/leonardo-m-346-fighter-attack-maiden-flight.html|access-date=2021-04-14|website=Blog Before Flight - Aerospace and Defense News}}</ref>

In February 2016, the newly created, consolidated Leonardo-Finmeccanica company promoted the Aermacchi M346 in two new roles: companion training and dissimilar air combat training. In order to better replicate the flight performance and behavior of various enemy aircraft, both the g-force and angle of attack can be independently selected in the flight control system; reportedly, existing customers have stated the type to be well suited to the aggressor role.<ref name="sing16 AON">Pocock, Chris. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-13/italian-jet-trainer-finds-new-cost-saving-roles "Italian Jet Trainer Finds New Cost-Saving Roles."] ''AIN Online'', 13 February 2016.</ref> Leonardo has offered the M-346 for Companion Training and Adversary/Red Air roles.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/home?t=1602499684962|title=Aerospace, Defence and Security |website= leonardo.com |access-date=22 April 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=M-346 product page, Leonardo web site |url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/products/m-346 |access-date=2021-04-02 |website= leonardocompany.com|language=en-US}}</ref>

In January 2021, Israeli and Greece ministers of defence announced plans to establish a wide-ranging $1.68 billion security agreement that include the procurement of ten M-346 aircraft and the establishment and operation of a flight school for the Hellenic Air Force by Elbit Systems, including provisions for simulators, training and logistic support.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shaham|first=Udi|date=5 January 2021|title=Israeli and Greek governments set to sign expansive defense deal|url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israeli-and-greek-governments-set-to-sign-expansive-defense-deal-654318|access-date=5 January 2021|publisher=The Jerusalem Post}}</ref>

==Design== thumb|An M-346 prototype in flight

The M-346 is designed for the main role of lead-in fighter trainer, in which aircraft's performance and capabilities are used to deliver pilot training for the latest generation of combat fighter aircraft. Powered by a pair of Honeywell F124 turbofan dry engines, designed to reduce acquisition and operating costs, it is capable of transonic flight without using an afterburner; Alenia Aermacchi has claimed that the M-346's flight performance to be "second only to afterburner-equipped aircraft".<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> During the design process, the twin concepts of "design-to-cost" and "design-to-maintain" were adhered to, reducing acquisition and operational costs;<ref name= "alenia 2014">[http://www.aiad.it/aiad_res/cms/documents/AleniaAermacchi_M346_2014ENG.pdf "Alenia Aermacchi M-346."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303204420/http://www.aiad.it/aiad_res/cms/documents/AleniaAermacchi_M346_2014ENG.pdf |date=3 March 2016}} ''Alenia Aermacchi'', 2014.</ref> the per flying hour costs of the M346 are reportedly one-tenth of those of the Eurofighter Typhoon.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> Outside of the training role, the M-346 was designed from the onset to accommodate additional operational capabilities, including combat missions such as close air support and air policing duties.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>

The M-346 incorporates a full-authority quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system which, in combination with the optimized aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft, provides for full manoeuvrability and controllability at very high angle of attack (in excess of 30° degrees).<ref name= "alenia 2014"/> The flight control system, incorporating a HOTAS design philosophy, is equipped with adjustable angle of attack and g-force limitations; when combined with its wide performance envelope, this allows the M-346 to effectively mimic the flight performance of various fighter aircraft operated by trainee pilots or to progressively increase difficulty levels, thus raising the training's effectiveness.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/><ref name= "alenia 2014"/> A pilot activated recovery system (PARS)<ref name=":2" /> is present which, when pressed, conducts an automatic recovery by returning the aircraft to a steady and level flight path.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>

A digital avionics system, modelled on its counterparts on board the latest generation of military aircraft such as the Saab JAS-39 Gripen, the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor and the Eurofighter Typhoon, is incorporated, making it suitable for all stages of advanced flight training and thus reducing the use of combat aircraft for training purposes,<ref name= "alenia 2014"/>”downloading” flight hours from Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) to Pilot Training Unit.<ref name=":2" /> A modular avionics architecture is employed, allowing for new equipment and systems to be incorporated and increasing the type's growth potential. The M-346's glass cockpit is representative of the latest generation cockpit and is compatible with Night Vision Goggles; it has three color LCD multifunctional displays, a head-up display (also in the rear cockpit),<ref name=":2" /> and an optional Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD).<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/><ref name=":2" /> A voice command system is also present, which is integrated with functions such as the navigation system. The communication systems include VHF/UHF transceivers, IFF transponder, and Mid-air Collision Avoidance System (MIDCAS),<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/> and Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS).<ref name=":2" />

thumb|left|Head-on view of a M-346 on the ground, 2015 A key feature of the M-346 is the Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS). The ETTS is capable of emulating various equipment, such as radar, targeting pods, weapons, and electronic warfare systems; additionally, the ETTS can interface with various munitions and other equipment actually being carried on board.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> The system can act in a standalone mode, in which simulated data and scenario information, with threats and targets,<ref name=":2" /> is loaded prior to takeoff, or in a network, during which data is received and acted upon in real time from ground monitoring stations via the aircraft's datalink.<ref name= "alenia 2014"/> The ETTS can generate realistic Computer Generated Forces (both friend and foe).<ref name=":2" /> For post-mission evaluation and analysis purposes, accumulated data, such as video from the optional Helmet Mounted Display, can be extracted and reviewed.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/> Leonardo also offer an Integrated Training System (ITS), combining the M-346 with a Ground-Based Training System (GBTS) - composed of academic training devices, simulators, mission planning and training management systems - and full logistic service<ref name=":2" /> as part of a wider syllabus towards qualifying pilots.<ref name= "alenia 2014"/>

thumb|A M-346 of Israeli Air Force on display The M-346, in the multirole Fighter Attack variant (M-346FA), is equipped with a multi-mode fire-control radar (Grifo M-346 by Leonardo Electronics)<ref name=":2" /> and a total of seven hardpoints, it is capable of carrying external loads up to 3,000&nbsp;kg while maintaining a high thrust-to-weight ratio; stores management data can be presented upon any of the multifunction displays in the cockpit.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/documents/20142/3159729/M-346FA_brochure.pdf?t=1543587430576|title=Brochure Leonardo M-346FA}}</ref> The radar cross-section of the M346 in a standard configuration is reportedly 20 square meters; this can be reduced to a single square meter by installing a low-observability kit which has been developed for the type. Other self-protection systems that can be fitted include a Defensive-Aids Support System (DASS) which includes Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and Chaff and Flares Dispensers (C&FD). The high-end, net-centric communication suite of the M-346FA includes secure comms and Tactical Datalink, both NATO and non-NATO.

The combat capable M-346FA can perform ground attack, homeland defence and air policing missions and reconnaissance. Various munitions and stores can be carried, including IRIS-T or AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, various air-to-surface missiles, anti-ship missiles, free-fall and laser-guided bombs and rockets, a 12.7&nbsp;mm gun pod, reconnaissance and targeting pods, and electronic warfare pods; weapon aiming is performed using the Helmet Mounted Display and the multifunction displays. All main systems are duplicated, and the flight system reconfigurable, to increase survivability and functionality in the event of battle damage being sustained.<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/> The aircraft has a maximum range of 1,375 nautical miles when outfitted with a maximum of three external fuel tanks, this can be extended via in-flight refuelling via a removable refuelling probe.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/><ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch"/>

==Operational history== ===Italian Air Force=== thumb|M-346 at RIAT 2009

In 2007, it was reported that the Italian Air Force intended to initially acquire a batch of 15 low rate production M-346s.<ref>{{Citation|url=http://www.abcmoney.co.uk/news/28200778245.htm |title=Finmeccanica to win govt order for 14 trainer aircraft – junior minister |newspaper=Money |place=UK |publisher=ABC |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927203234/http://www.abcmoney.co.uk/news/28200778245.htm |archive-date=2007-09-27}}.</ref> On 18 June 2009, Alenia Aermacchi announced they had received an order for the first six with an option for nine more.<ref>{{Citation |url=http://www.finmeccanica.com/EN/Common/files/Holding/Corporate/Sala_stampa/Comunicati_stampa/Anno_2009/Com_M346_18_06_09_ING.pdf |title=Alenia Aermacchi (Finmeccanica) and Italian Ministry of Defence sign agreement to supply Six M-346s |year=2009 |type=press release |publisher=Finmeccanica |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711003351/http://www.finmeccanica.com/EN/Common/files/Holding/Corporate/Sala_stampa/Comunicati_stampa/Anno_2009/Com_M346_18_06_09_ING.pdf |archive-date=2011-07-11}}.</ref> In September 2015, the Italian Air Force started their first training course using the M-346 trainer.<ref>Kington, Tom. [http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/training-simulation/2015/09/12/italy-launches-m-346-training-eye-t-x-bid/72002906/ "Italy Launches M-346 Training With Eye on T-X Bid."] ''Defense News'', 12 September 2015.</ref> In March 2016, Finmeccanica signed a contract worth over 300 million Euros with the Italian Ministry of Defence for nine M-346, bringing the number of aircraft ordered by Italy to 18.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/finmeccanica-ha-firmato-un-contratto-di-oltre-300-milioni-di-euro-per-ulteriori-nove-velivoli-da-addestramento-avanzato-aermacchi-m-346-destinati-all-aeronautica-militare|title=Finmeccanica signs contract worth over 300 million Euros with the Italian Ministry of Defence for nine Aermacchi M-346 aircraft|website= leonardo.com}}</ref>

In February 2018, the Italian Air Force received its 18th M-346, concluding the force's acquisition program.<ref name="ItalyCompleteJanes">{{cite web|last1=Jennings|first1=Gareth|title=Italy receives final M-346 jet trainer|url=http://www.janes.com/article/78205/italy-receives-final-m-346-jet-trainer|access-date=2 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228042049/http://www.janes.com/article/78205/italy-receives-final-m-346-jet-trainer|archive-date=28 February 2018|location=London|date=27 February 2018|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> In 2019, four more M-346 were delivered to the newly formed Italian Air Force/Leonardo International Flight Training School (IFTS) at Galatina Air Base.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://gbp.com.sg/stories/training-at-the-top/|title=Training at the Top |publisher= gbp.com.sg}}</ref>

On 12 September 2024, the Italian Air Force's aerobatic team Frecce Tricolori unveiled the M-346 as its new aircraft to replace the Aermacchi MB-339-A/PAN, alongside a new livery designed by Pininfarina.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Felstead |first=Peter |date=2024-09-13 |title=Italian Air Force presents M-346 as Frecce Tricolori's future aircraft - European Security & Defence |url=https://euro-sd.com/2024/09/major-news/40401/m-346-for-frecce-tricolori/ |access-date=2024-09-16 |website=euro-sd.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Singapore Air Force=== In July 2010, the M-346 was selected by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) to replace the ST Aerospace A-4SU Super Skyhawks in the Advanced Jet Training (AJT) role, based at BA 120 Cazaux Air Base in France.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdi/jdi100712_1_n.shtml |title=Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 wins Singapore jet trainer race|date=12 July 2010|publisher= Jane's Information Group|access-date= 16 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100719120813/http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdi/jdi100712_1_n.shtml|archive-date=19 July 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url =http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/07/08/344212/singapore-to-announce-m-346-trainer-selection.html| title= Singapore to announce M-346 trainer selection |last= Govindasamy|first=Siva|date=8 July 2010|publisher=Flightglobal.com|access-date=16 July 2010|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100711042155/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/07/08/344212/singapore-to-announce-m-346-trainer-selection.html |archive-date=11 July 2010}}</ref> In a press release by the Singaporean Ministry of Defence on 28 September 2010, ST Aerospace was awarded the contract to acquire twelve M-346 and a ground-based training system on behalf of RSAF. As stipulated in the contract, ST Aerospace acts as the main contractor in the maintenance of the aircraft after delivery by Alenia Aermacchi while Boeing supplies the training system.<ref name="CNA">{{cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1083817/1/.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20100929161738/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1083817/1/.html |url-status=dead|archive-date=29 September 2010 |title=MINDEF awards contract to ST Aerospace to acquire 12 M-346 aircraft |last=S |first=Ramesh |date=28 September 2010 |publisher=MediaCorp Channel NewsAsia |access-date=28 September 2010 |location=Singapore}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|title=New Generation Advanced Fighter Trainer for the RSAF|publisher=MINDEF|date=28 September 2010|url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2010/sep/28sep10_nr.html|access-date=28 September 2010|archive-date=5 August 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805125355/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2010/sep/28sep10_nr.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_584003.html|title=New fighter trainer for RSAF|date=28 September 2010|work=The Straits Times|publisher=Singapore Press Holdings|access-date=28 September 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001104203/http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_584003.html|archive-date=1 October 2010}}</ref> The RSAF holds the distinction of being the first export customer for the type.<ref name= "sing16 AON"/>

===Israeli Air Force=== On 16 February 2012, the M-346 was selected by the Israeli Air Force (IAF) in an exchange deal, in which Israel will build a reconnaissance satellite and AWACs systems<ref>[http://www.globes.co.il/en/article-israel-delivers-advanced-g-550-aircraft-to-italy-1001167651 Israel delivers advanced G-550 aircraft to Italy] 19 Dec, 2016, Globes correspondent</ref> for Italy in return for the planes.<ref name="timesofisrael.com">[http://www.timesofisrael.com/final-plane-in-billion-dollar-deal-with-italy-lands-in-israel/ Final plane in billion-dollar deal with Italy lands in Israel] BY ILAN BEN ZION July 21, 2016, Times of Israel</ref><ref>[http://www.globes.co.il/en/article-1000725663 Israel to buy Italy's M-346 jet trainer for $1b] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215045214/http://www.globes.co.il/en/article-1000725663 |date=February 15, 2015}} 16/02/2012, 16:45</ref> It will operate as the IAF's main training jet to replace the McDonnell Douglas A-4H/N Skyhawk, which has served the IAF for over 40 years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-selects-alenia-aermacchi-m-346-for-trainer-deal-368392/|title=Israel selects Alenia Aermacchi M-346 for trainer deal|last=Arie Egozi|publisher=Flightglobal.com|access-date=17 February 2012}}</ref><ref name="JPost">{{cite news |title=Italy wins IAF with combat trainer jet bid|url=https://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=258135|author=Katz, Yaakov |date=16 February 2012|work=JPost}}</ref> On 19 July 2012, a contract was signed between Alenia Aermacchi and the Israeli Ministry of Defence to supply 30 M-346s, with the first delivery expected in the middle of 2014.<ref name="AA1">{{cite press release|title=Alenia Aermacchi signs contract with Israeli MoD for 30 M-346 |publisher=Alenia Aermacchi |date=19 July 2012 |url=http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/Eng/Media/news/Pages/AleniaAermacchisignscontractwithIsraeliMoDfor30M-346.aspx |access-date=19 July 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120809102249/http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/eng/Media/news/Pages/AleniaAermacchisignscontractwithIsraeliMoDfor30M-346.aspx |archive-date=9 August 2012}}</ref> The Israeli Air Force announced on 2 July 2013 that in Israeli service the M-346 would be named the ''Lavi'', reusing the name given to the cancelled IAI Lavi.<ref>Egozi, Arie. [http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israels-lavi-reborn-as-renamed-m-346-387862/ "Israel's Lavi reborn as renamed M-346."] ''Flight International'', 2 July 2013.</ref> The IAF's first M-346 was rolled out in a ceremony at Alenia Aermacchi's factory in Venegono Superiore on March 20, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/first-israeli-m-346-advanced-trainer-aircraft-rolls-out/|first=Steven|last=Hoarn|date=March 25, 2014|access-date=April 2, 2014|title=First Israeli M-346 Advanced Trainer Aircraft Rolls Out|publisher=Defense Media Network}}</ref>

===Polish Air Force=== On 23 December 2013, it was announced that Poland had selected the M-346 to meet a requirement for an advanced jet trainer.<ref>{{Citation |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/poland-picks-m-346-for-training-deal-394407/ |title= Poland pick M-346 for training deal |website=FlightGlobal}}.</ref> A contract for eight aircraft was signed on 27 February 2014.<ref>{{Citation |newspaper= Altair |trans-title=Signing a contract for M-346 for the Air Force |url= http://www.altair.com.pl/news/view?news_id=12828 |language= pl |place= PL |title= Podpisanie umowy na M-346 dla Sił Powietrznych}}.</ref> The first two M-346s arrived at Dęblin in November 2016.<ref name="flightglobal.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/polands-first-m-346-trainers-arrive-in-deblin-431546/|title=Poland's first M-346 trainers arrive in Deblin|date=16 November 2016|work=flightglobal.com|access-date=19 March 2017}}</ref> The aircraft were initially not officially accepted due to non-compliance with contract specifications.<ref name="dlapilota.pl">{{cite web|url=http://dlapilota.pl/wiadomosci/polska/samoloty-m-346-master-nadal-uziemione/|title=Samoloty M-346 Master nadal uziemione|date=31 August 2017|work=dlapilota.pl}}</ref> The delivery deadline was originally November 2016, but delays meant delivery and acceptance was not complete until 22 December 2017.<ref name="PolskaZbrojna">{{cite web |url=http://polska-zbrojna.pl/home/articleshow/24407?t=Mastery-gotowe-do-lotu/|title=Master gotowe do lotu|date=22 December 2017|work=dziennikzbrojny|access-date=22 December 2017}}</ref>

In December 2017, Poland's Ministry of National Defence announced it was seeking financial penalties from Leonardo of up to 100 million zlotys (U.S. $28 million) over the delays. Additionally, the ministry had complained that the M-346 was not fully capable of simulating certain weapon systems for training purposes.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Adamowski|first1=Jaroslaw|title=Poland seeks penalty from Leonardo over M-346 trainers|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2017/12/20/poland-seeks-penalty-from-leonardo-over-m-346-trainers/|website=Defense News|access-date=26 December 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171220162512/https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2017/12/20/poland-seeks-penalty-from-leonardo-over-m-346-trainers/|archive-date=20 December 2017|location=Warsaw|date=20 December 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 19 November 2018, Leonardo's Aircraft Division together with Elbit Systems completed delivery of M-346 Full Mission Simulators and Flight Training Devices to the Polish Air Force. This was initially scheduled to be completed by November 2016.<ref name="Air Recognition">{{cite web |url=http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2018/november/4636-elbit-delivers-final-m-346-training-systems-to-polish-air-force.html |title=Elbit delivers final M-346 training systems to Polish Air Force |date=19 November 2018 |work=airrecognition |access-date=19 November 2018 |archive-date=2 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230502114501/https://airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2018/november/4636-elbit-delivers-final-m-346-training-systems-to-polish-air-force.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In March 2018, Poland signed for an additional four M-346s and support package, plus options for a further four aircraft, and a support package.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.leonardo.com/documents/15646808/16759241/ComLDO_Poland_M346_27_03_2018_ENG_def2.pdf?t=1549547045929 |title=Poland grows its M-346 fleet with an order worth more than €115 mln for four additional aircraft |website=leonardo.com |date=2018-03-27 |access-date=2024-12-30}}</ref><ref name="Herk">{{Cite web|last=Herk|first=Hans van|title=Polish Air Force orders four more M346s|url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/polish-air-force-orders-four-more-m346s|access-date=2021-04-14|website= scramble.nl|date=5 February 2021 |language=en-GB}}</ref> In December 2018, Poland signed for the additional four aircraft, as well as upgrades to the existing fleet of eight. Deliveries and upgrade work for the total of 16 M-346 is expected to run into 2022.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jennings |first1=Gareth |title=Poland exercises option for four more M-346 jet trainers, to upgrade existing fleet |url=https://www.janes.com/article/85235/poland-exercises-option-for-four-more-m-346-jet-trainers-to-upgrade-existing-fleet |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=17 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214221210/https://www.janes.com/article/85235/poland-exercises-option-for-four-more-m-346-jet-trainers-to-upgrade-existing-fleet |archive-date=14 December 2018 |location=London |date=14 December 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Dominic |title=Poland firms options for four more M-346 trainers |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/poland-firms-options-for-four-more-m-346-trainers-454439/ |website=FlightGlobal |access-date=17 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215144051/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/poland-firms-options-for-four-more-m-346-trainers-454439/ |archive-date=15 December 2018 |location=London |date=14 December 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>{{Update inline|date=July 2024}}

On 12 July 2024, a Polish Air Force M-346 Demo Team jet crashed during its flying display near Gdynia. Pilot Maj. Robert “Killer” Jeł lost his life in the crash.<ref name="auto1">{{cite web | url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/07/12/polish-air-force-m-346-demo-aircraft-crashes-in-gdynia/ | title=Polish Air Force M-346 Demo Aircraft Crashes in Gdynia | date=12 July 2024 }}</ref>

===Potential operators=== ====Argentina==== In October 2016, the Argentine Air Force also evaluated the M-346 as a potential combat fighter to replace the Dassault Mirage III and Mirage 5 aircraft it had retired in 2015, as well as the Douglas A-4AR aircraft that remain in service with only limited capability. Argentina was speculated to be interested in ten to twelve aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Jennings|first1=Gareth|title=Argentina evaluates M-346 as potential combat fighter|url=http://www.janes.com/article/64826|website=IHS Jane's 360|access-date=22 October 2016|location=London|date=21 October 2016}}</ref>

==== Austria ==== By November 2025, Austria finalized the purchase of twelve Leonardo M-346-FA jets, to replace the retired Saab 105 and close a long-standing gap in its air defense and pilot training capabilities, with deployment planned in Linz-Hörsching from 2028. The package spans about €1.5 billion , including aircraft, weapons, simulators, training, and maintenance. It enables the full implementation of the Bundesheer’s two-fleet strategy alongside the Eurofighter, and aims to restore domestic pilot training, which was previously outsourced abroad.<ref>{{Cite web |last=GmbH |first=Typoheads |date=2025-11-29 |title=Österreich finalisiert Ankauf der M-346-FA |url=https://www.bundesheer.at/aktuelles/detail/oesterreich-finalisiert-ankauf-der-m-346-fa |access-date=2026-02-26 |website=www.bundesheer.at |language=de}}</ref>

====Azerbaijan==== On 20 February 2020, the president of Azerbaijan announced that the country would buy an undisclosed number of M-346s. The Azerbaijani Air and Air Defence Force has a requirement to augment and replace its Soviet-era Mikoyan MiG-29, Sukhoi Su-25, and Aero L-39 Albatros jets.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/94472/azerbaijan-to-buy-m-346-master-jet |title=Azerbaijan to buy M-346 Master jet |website= Jane's 360 (janes.com) |access-date=2020-03-13}}</ref> The number of aircraft to be purchased is between 10 and 25 (10 plus an option for 15).<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2020-02-27/azerbaijan-buys-m-346-caucasus-stand-continues|title=Azerbaijan Buys the M-346 as Caucasus Stand-off Continues|last=Dunai|first=Peter|website=Aviation International News|language=en|access-date=2020-03-13}}</ref> Azerbaijani military leaders also considered the Yak-130 for the trainer requirement but selected the M-346 despite its higher price because of its lighter weight and higher maneuverability and problems with manufacturing of the engines for Yak-130.<ref name=":1" />

====Brazil==== In July 2024, during the 2024 edition of the Farnborough International Airshow, Leonardo presented and offered to Brazil the new variant Block 20, as a candidate for the Brazilian Air Force's process of selection for a light attack jet to replace the older AMX attack jet. The aircraft was evaluated by the MoD minister José Múcio and the air force commander Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/4939690/brasil-conoce-nuevo-m-346-master-block-20-durante-salon-aeronautico-farnborough-2024-reino-unido |title=Brasil se acerca al nuevo M-346 Master Block 20 durante el Salón Aeronáutico de Farnborough 2024 en el Reino Unido | website=Infodefensa |date=24 July 2024}}</ref> In November 2024, during the visit to Brazil by the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, she will meet Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to discuss the sale of 24 M-346s to the Brazilian Air Force, another six aircraft to the Brazilian Navy and other related accords.<ref name="BR">{{cite web |url= https://veja.abril.com.br/coluna/radar/como-sera-a-conversa-de-lula-com-a-primeira-ministra-da-italia-no-g20/ |title=Como será a conversa de Lula com a primeira-ministra da Itália no G20 | website=Veja |date=25 October 2024}}</ref>

====Colombia==== The M-346 FA has been pre-selected over the KAI FA-50 Golden Eagle, but it is unclear if the purchase will be made as the Colombian Air Force is also looking to purchase an air superiority capable fighter.<ref>{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=Colombia examina la propuesta del avión ligero Leonardo M-346 |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5082548/195-colombia |access-date=2024-11-26 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}</ref>

====Eurotraining==== The Advance European Pilot Training (AEPTJ) program – unofficially called ''Eurotraining'' – a consortium of twelve European nations to give advance & lead-in fighter training with a common core course and training provided by a common aircraft – has contacted Alenia Aermacchi through the European Defence agency in 2010, for further information on the M-346.<ref>Peruzzi, Luca. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/m-346-partners-make-case-for-eurotraining-deal-343392/ "M-346 partners make case for Eurotraining deal."] ''Flight International'', 22 June 2010.</ref> In May 2013, Alenia Aermacchi announced that the AEPTJ held a low priority for the firm and that "...progress has been slow."<ref>{{Citation |first1= FM |last1= Mirto |first2= L |last2= La Caverna |title= The Italian Master |newspaper= Air International |date=May 2013 |pages= 28–35}}.</ref>

====Indonesia==== In 2010, Indonesia was considering to replace its BAE Hawk Mk 53 trainer and OV-10 Bronco attack aircraft with a new type, and the M-346 was among the potential candidates.<ref>{{cite web |first=Siva |last=Govindasamy |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/01/14/337081/indonesian-air-force-seeks-to-revive-light-attack-trainer.html |title=Indonesian air force seeks to revive light attack, trainer procurements |website=Flightglobal.com |date=14 January 2010 |access-date=21 December 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100117100421/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/01/14/337081/indonesian-air-force-seeks-to-revive-light-attack-trainer.html |archive-date=17 January 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Indonesian Air Force chose the T-50 Golden Eagle for its trainer and light attack program in May 2011.<ref>{{cite web |author=Jung Sung-Ki |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=6633066&c=ASI&s=AIR |title=Indonesia To Buy 16 S. Korean T-50 Trainers |website=defensenews.com |date=26 May 2011 |access-date=21 December 2025 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130121094622/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=6633066&c=ASI&s=AIR |archive-date=21 January 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In July 2025, Indonesian Air Force delegation visited the Leonardo facility in Milan and, among other agenda, inspected the M-346FA production line. The Air Force stated that the aircraft "...serves as a reference for strengthening fighter pilot education programs and developing operational readiness".<ref>{{cite web |first=Sasongko |last=Dwi |url=https://www.isds.co.id/2025/07/19/kunjungi-leonardo-company-italia-kasau-tinjau-opsi-penguatan-kapabilitas-udara/ |title=Kunjungi Leonardo Company Italia, Kasau Tinjau Opsi Penguatan Kapabilitas Udara |work=Indonesia Strategic and Defence Studies (ISDS) |date=19 July 2025 |access-date=21 December 2025 |language=ID}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://tni-au.mil.id/berita/detail/kunjungan-kerja-kasau-ke-leonardo-di-italia-untuk-tinjau-opsi-penguatan-kapabilitas-udara |title=Kunjungan Kerja Kasau ke Leonardo di Italia untuk Tinjau Opsi Penguatan Kapabilitas Udara |website=TNI-AU.mil.id |date=15 July 2025 |access-date=21 December 2025 |language=ID}}</ref> The Ministry of Defense of Indonesia stated in December 2025 that discussion regarding the M-346FA is in early stages of consideration.<ref>{{cite web |first=Dani |last=Aswara |url=https://en.tempo.co/read/2074969/indonesia-no-decision-yet-on-italian-m-346fa-jets-acquisition |title=Indonesia: No Decision Yet on Italian M-346FA Jets Acquisition |website=Tempo.co |date=20 December 2025 |access-date=21 December 2025 }}</ref> The Ministry of Defense signed a letter of intent for M-346F Block 20 in February 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Leonardo, PT ESystem Solutions and the Ministry of Defence Of the Republic of Indonesia sign M-346 F AIRCRAFT Letter of Intent to meet Indonesian Air Force training and combat requirements |url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/04-02-2026-leonardo-pt-esystem-solutions-and-the-ministry-of-defence-of-the-republic-of-indonesia-sign-m-346-f-aircraft-letter-of-intent-to-meet-indonesian-air-force-training-and-combat-requirements |access-date=2026-02-04 |website=www.leonardo.com |language=en-US}}</ref> One report said the deal involves the sale of 24 M-346FIs, with an option for another 12.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2026-02-03 |title=Indonesia/Italy • Rome set to seal deal with Indonesian air force |url=https://www.intelligenceonline.com/asia-pacific/2026/02/03/rome-set-to-seal-deal-with-indonesian-air-force,110618386-bre |access-date=2026-02-04 |website=Intelligence Online |language=en}}</ref>

====Ireland==== In July 2021, Leonardo made a submission to the Irish Commission on the Defence Forces presenting the M-346FA as a light multi-role fighter and advanced trainer for the Irish Air Corps. The commission has multiple tasks, including determining the future capability requirements for the Irish Defence Forces. Currently, the Irish Air Corps has a very limited air combat capability with eight Pilatus PC-9M training/light attack aircraft. The M-346FA could be a cheaper alternative to more expensive fighters and would be Ireland's first combat jet aircraft since the retirement of the six Fouga CM.170 Magister aircraft in 1999. In comparison to Ireland's current air combat capability, the M-346FA would be considered by many to be a step up, introducing features such as air-to-air missiles and onboard radar.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://assets.gov.ie/136040/743e8c26-db34-419f-9234-b14ed58ce3a0.pdf|title=Government document}}</ref>

====Japan==== The M-346 Block 20 is speculated to be a contender to replace the aging Kawasaki T-4. Some Japanese fighter pilots began flying the M-346 with the International Flight Training School.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gordon |first1=Arthur |title=Vendors line up to fill Japan's F-35 pilot training gap |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2025/06/03/vendors-line-up-to-fill-japans-f-35-pilot-training-gap/ |access-date=9 June 2025 |agency=Defense News |date=3 June 2025}}</ref>

====Spain==== Possible replacement of Spanish Northrop F-5BMs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=An Airbus and Leonardo agreement brings the excellent M-346 Master aircraft closer to Spain |url=https://www.outono.net/elentir/2023/06/23/an-airbus-and-leonardo-agreement-brings-the-excellent-m-346-master-aircraft-closer-to-spain/ |access-date=2024-06-06 |website=Counting Stars |language=en}}</ref> Although Spain signed a memorandum for cooperation in December 2024 for the TAI Hürjet, Leonardo continues to support the sale of the M-346 to the Spanish Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web |last=InfoDefensa |first=Revista Defensa |title=La italiana Leonardo no tira la toalla y viaja a Madrid para 'vender' el entrenador M-346 al Ejército del Aire |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/5120010/italiana-leonardo-no-tira-toalla-viaja-madrid-vender-entrenador-m-345-jefe-ejercito-aire |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=Infodefensa - Noticias de defensa, industria, seguridad, armamento, ejércitos y tecnología de la defensa |language=es}}</ref> In fact, a study by the University Center for Defense (CUD) in San Javier, Murcia, concluded in 2020 that this aircraft is the best option, after comparing it against other market options like the KAI T-50 and the Yak-130. The authors applied the Fuzzy Reference Ideal Method to rank advanced military trainer aircraft.<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Sánchez-Lozano | first1 = J. M. | last2 = Naranjo Rodríguez | first2 = O. | year = 2020 | title = Application of Fuzzy Reference Ideal Method (FRIM) to the military advanced training aircraft selection | journal = Applied Soft Computing | volume = 88 | article-number = 106061 | doi = 10.1016/j.asoc.2020.106061 }}</ref> However in 2025, it was announced that Spain had chosen to acquire the TAI Hürjet.<ref>{{Cite web |title=TUSAŞ'tan tarihi imza: Hürjet İspanya yolcusu |url=https://www.trthaber.com/haber/gundem/tusastan-tarihi-imza-hurjet-ispanya-yolcusu-907189.html |access-date=2025-05-15 |language=tr-TR}}</ref>

====Tunisia==== On 31 July 2025 a delegation from Leonardo, offered the M-346 as a replacement for the Aero L-59 Super Albatros.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Arnaud |date=2025-08-04 |title=La Tunisie dans le viseur de Leonardo. |url=https://www.avionslegendaires.net/2025/08/actu/la-tunisie-dans-le-viseur-de-leonardo/ |access-date=2025-08-06 |website=avionslegendaires.net |language=fr-FR}}</ref>

====United Arab Emirates==== The M-346 was named the winner of a competition by the United Arab Emirates at the IDEX 2009 defense show in Abu Dhabi on 25 February 2009.<ref>{{Citation |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/02/25/323077/uae-chooses-m-346-as-advanced-lead-in-fighter-trainer.html |title= UAE chooses M-346 as advanced lead-in fighter trainer |date= 2009-02-25 |publisher=FlightGlobal}}.</ref> The official said the order involved delivery of 48 aircraft to be used for pilot training and light attack duties. A final request for proposals in 2010 had set the requirement at 20 trainers, 20 aircraft for combat duties, and the remainder would go toward the creation of an aerobatic team. However, by January 2010, negotiations to sign a contract had reportedly stalled over specifications.<ref>{{Citation |url= http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4473037&c=AIR&s=TOP |archive-url= https://archive.today/20130102154138/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4473037&c=AIR&s=TOP |url-status=dead|archive-date= 2013-01-02 |title= UAE Reopens Talks To Buy T-50 Trainer |newspaper= Defense News}}.</ref> On 18 November 2011, the prototype, which had been on display at the Dubai Airshow, crashed after departing Dubai on return to Italy.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/alenia-aermacchi-m-346-crashes-in-uae-365073/|title=Alenia Aermacchi M-346 crashes in UAE|publisher=Flightglobal|first1=Niall|last1=O’Keeffe|date=18 November 2011|access-date=21 November 2015}}</ref>

====United States Air Force==== thumb|T-100 at Farnborough Airshow 2018

Alenia Aermacchi submitted the M-346 for the United States Air Force's T-X program to replace the aging Northrop T-38 Talon, rebranding it as the ''Leonardo DRS T-100 Integrated Training System''. Alenia originally intended to be the prime contractor, anticipating moving the final assembly location from Italy to the United States if the bid succeeded. About 350 aircraft were expected to be ordered, with further purchases leading to over 1,000 aircraft being purchased overall.<ref name= "t38 repla">{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-air-force-industry-prepare-for-t-38-replacement-343393/| title= US Air Force, industry prepare for T-38 replacement |first= Stephen |last= Trimble |date=22 June 2010 |publisher=FlightGlobal |access-date=19 February 2012}}</ref> In January 2013, Alenia Aermacchi signed a letter of intent with General Dynamics C4 Systems, who intended to serve as the prime contractor for the T-X bid; however, General Dynamics announced their withdrawal in March 2015.<ref>{{Citation |title= GD & Alenia Aermacchi join forces for USAF T-X trainer competition |url= http://www.asdnews.com/news-47187/GD_and_Alenia_Aermacchi_Join_Forces_for_USAF_T-X_Trainer_Competition.htm?HASH=8dcecd09637ea88243df6a00b4665c5e |newspaper= ASD news |access-date= 2013-01-19 |archive-date= 2013-10-05 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131005012341/http://www.asdnews.com/news-47187/GD_and_Alenia_Aermacchi_Join_Forces_for_USAF_T-X_Trainer_Competition.htm?HASH=8dcecd09637ea88243df6a00b4665c5e |url-status= dead}}.</ref><ref>Mehta, Aaron.[http://www.defensenews.com/story/breaking-news/2015/03/26/general-dynamics-withdraws-tx-t100-prime-cotnractor/70510320/ "GD Withdraws as T-100 Prime Contractor."] ''Defense News'', 27 March 2015.</ref> On 1 January 2016, Alenia Aermacchi was absorbed into Leonardo S.p.A. In February 2016, it was announced that Raytheon, which would serve as the prime contractor, had teamed up with Leonardo to offer an advanced variant of the M-346 for the T-X program called the T-100.<ref>[http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/171532/raytheon-to-bid-aermacchi-m346-for-usaf%E2%80%99s-t_x-trainer-competition.html "Raytheon Team to Deliver Next-Generation Jet Trainer; Finmeccanica, CAE USA and Honeywell Join Raytheon to Provide Fully Integrated Solution."] ''Raytheon Co.'', 22 February 2016.</ref>

On 25 January 2017, Raytheon announced that it had withdrawn as prime contractor and American partner in the T-X competition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/2017-01-25-Raytheon-Leonardo-team-withdraws-from-T-X-competition|title=Raytheon/Leonardo team withdraws from T-X competition|publisher=Raytheon|date=25 January 2017|access-date=2 February 2017}}</ref> One of the sticking points had been price per unit: at the time the M-346 had a flyaway cost of $25 million, but Raytheon wanted Leonardo to reduce that by 30%.<ref>{{cite news|author= Tom Kington|title=Trainer Price Wars: Raytheon Wanted Millions Less Per Plane Than Leonardo|url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2017/01/26/trainer-price-wars-raytheon-wanted-millions-less-per-plane-than-leonardo/|date=2017-01-26|publisher=Defense News}}</ref> On 8 February 2017, Leonardo confirmed that it would remain in the T-X competition alone, with Leonardo DRS, its American subsidiary, serving as prime contractor.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/leonardo-returns-to-t-x-competition-alone-433970/|title=Leonardo returns to T-X competition alone|date=8 February 2017|work=flightglobal.com|access-date=19 March 2017}}</ref> In September 2017, it was announced that the T-X program had selected the rival Boeing T-7 Red Hawk submission instead.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2018/09/27/reuters-air-force-awards-9b-contract-to-boeing-for-next-training-jet/|title=US Air Force awards $9B contract to Boeing for next training jet|first=Valerie|last=Insinna|date=September 27, 2018|website=Defense News}}</ref>

On the 22nd of August 2025 the Italian Air Force and the United States Air Force signed the “Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Flight Training of the USAF Military Personnel in Italy” which will see U.S. student pilots, for the first time in history, be trained in a foreign NATO pilot school, the International Flight Training School (IFTS) on the M-346.<ref>{{Cite web |last=D'Urso |first=Stefano |date=2025-08-29 |title=U.S. Air Force Student Pilots Will Train at the International Flight Training School in Italy |url=https://theaviationist.com/2025/08/29/usaf-pilots-training-ifts-italy/ |access-date=2025-10-02 |website=The Aviationist |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-31 |title=U.S. Air Force pilots to train at Italy's International Flight Training School (IFTS) under new deal - Defence Industry Europe |url=https://defence-industry.eu/u-s-air-force-pilots-to-train-at-italys-international-flight-training-school-ifts-under-new-deal/ |access-date=2025-10-02 |language=en}}</ref> The first course with ten USAF pilots was scheduled to start on 8 September 2025, and should be completed by June 2026, leading the students to the USAF military wings.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-29 |title=USAF fighter pilots to train in Italy |url=https://www.key.aero/article/usaf-fighter-pilots-train-italy |access-date=2025-10-02 |website=www.key.aero |language=en}}</ref>

==== United States Navy ==== The M-346 is being offered to the United States Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) competition to replace the aging McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk by Leonardo (company) with Textron Aviation Defense being the prime contractor for the bid.<ref>{{Cite web |last=D'Urso |first=David Cenciotti, Stefano |date=2024-06-04 |title=The M-346N Is The Only "Low Risk, No Drama" Solution For The U.S. Navy, Textron And Leonardo Say |url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/06/04/m-346n/ |access-date=2025-07-30 |website=The Aviationist |language=en-US}}</ref> On 28 July 2025, Textron announced it will offer a US-made version of the Italian light jet under the designation Beechcraft M-346N.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-28 |title=Beechcraft M-346N unveiled as ready-now solution for U.S. Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System |url=https://media.txtav.com/252622-beechcraft-m-346n-unveiled-as-ready-now-solution-for-u-s-navy-undergraduate-jet-training-system/ |access-date=2025-07-30 |website=Textron Aviation newsroom |language=en}}</ref> The offer has been described to have been adapted to the Navy's revised requirements, conducting only Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP) approaches to wave off, thereby obviating the need for a tailhook, catapult launch bar, or extensive structural modifications for arrested carrier operations. This focus on FCLP-only training aligns with the fifth USN Request for Information (RFI) released on 31 March 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 31, 2025 |title=Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) Request for Information March 2025 |url=https://sam.gov/opp/4e229960616944c3bc0063bbbc0f9f03/view |access-date=2025-07-30 |website=sam.gov}}</ref>

====Uruguay==== As part of the Fuerza Aérea Uruguaya modernization efforts, Uruguay has shown interest in purchasing at least six new radar-equipped aircraft to replace its Cessna A-37; according to sources within the force, the M-346 is favored over the Hongdu L-15.<ref>{{cite web | title=Uruguay looks to buy new light fighter jet, Italian M-346FA is on top | url=https://www.blogbeforeflight.net/2020/11/uruguay-looks-buy-new-light-fighter-jet.html }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last1=Minuto | first1=el | title=Uruguay y sus Fuerzas Armadas las deudas pendientes &#124; el minuto | work=el minuto | date=18 September 2020 | url=https://elminuto.cl/uruguay-y-sus-fuerzas-armadas-las-deudas-pendientes/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512115303/https://elminuto.cl/uruguay-y-sus-fuerzas-armadas-las-deudas-pendientes/ | archive-date=12 May 2021 }}</ref>

==Variants == thumb|right|M-346FT multirole variant in 2016 thumb|right|M-346FA multirole variant in 2017

; M-346 : Designation for the basic type. ; T-346A : Italian military designation from 2012 for the M-346.<ref name= "dgaa">{{cite web |url= http://www.dgaa.it/newsletter/newsletter60/AER-0-0-12.pdf |title= Utilizzo della Nomenclatura 'Mission Design Series' (MDS) nelle Pubblicazioni Tecniche (PPTT) di Competenza della Daa |language= it |place= IT |trans-title= Using the nomenclature 'Mission Design Series' (MDS) in Technical Publications (PTT) of competence of Daa |publisher= Ministero Della Defesa |date= June 2011}}</ref> ; M-346LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) : Armed variant offered to Poland as a replacement for aging Su-22.<ref name="LCAforPoland">{{cite web|url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/166311/aermacchi-touts-m_346-to-poland-as-su_22-replacement.html|title=Radom Air Show 2015: Will the Armed Master Replace the Su-22?|publisher=Defence Aerospace|date=25 August 2015|access-date=21 November 2015}}</ref> Designation no longer in use.<ref name=":2" /> ; M-346FT (Fighter Trainer) : Multirole variant capable of switching between training and combat operations. New features include a new tactical datalink system and different armament capability, but do not include physical changes to the hardware.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tom|first1=Kington|title=Leonardo-Finmeccanica Launches New Dual Role M-346FT|url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/farnborough/2016/07/10/leonardo-finmeccanica-launches-new-dual-role-m-346ft/86924996/|website=Defense News|access-date=11 July 2016|location=Farnborough|language=en|date=10 July 2016}}</ref> ; M-346FA (Fighter Attack) : Multirole variant capable of air-to-air and air-to-surface combat with a 3 tonne payload spread over seven hardpoints, advanced Grifo-M346 radar<ref name=":2" /> radar, countermeasures and stealth features including engine intake grids and radar-absorbing coatings on the canopy and wing leading edge. It is being marketed as a light attack aircraft also suitable for aggressor and companion training purposes. The aircraft was revealed on 18 June 2017, in a static display at that year's Paris Air Show. The aircraft is being marketed for export to South American and East Asian countries, and is claimed to be able to carry out operational missions at far lower costs than those of front-line fighters.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |title=PARIS: Leonardo takes wraps off M-346FA fighter |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-leonardo-takes-wraps-off-m-346fa-fighter-438341/ |website=FlightGlobal |access-date=18 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170618183305/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/paris-leonardo-takes-wraps-off-m-346fa-fighter-438341/ |archive-date=18 June 2017 |location=Paris, France |date=18 June 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Shalal |first1=Andrea |last2=Blair |first2=Edmund |title=Italy's Leonardo sees Asia, South American interest in M-346 attack fighter |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-airshow-paris-leonardo-idUSKBN1990VU |website=Reuters |access-date=19 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170619183001/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-airshow-paris-leonardo-idUSKBN1990VU |archive-date=19 June 2017 |location=Paris |date=18 June 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Leonardo introduces fighter attack version of the M-346 trainer |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/leonardo-introduces-fighter-attack-version-m-346-trainer/ |website=UK Defence Journal |access-date=19 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170619183215/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/leonardo-introduces-fighter-attack-version-m-346-trainer/ |archive-date=19 June 2017 |location=Paris |date=19 June 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Leonardo Unveils Fighter Attack Version of M-346 Trainer jet At Paris Air Show 2017 |url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/19606/Leonardo_Unveils_Fighter_Attack_Version_of_M_346_Trainer_jet_At_Paris_Air_Show_2017 |website=Defense World |access-date=19 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170619183219/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/19606/Leonardo_Unveils_Fighter_Attack_Version_of_M_346_Trainer_jet_At_Paris_Air_Show_2017%23.WUgYqtLLfK4 |archive-date=19 June 2017 |location=Paris |date=19 June 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref> ; T-100 : Designation used for the United States Air Force's T-X program.<ref name= "t38 repla"/> ; M-346N ITS : Proposed carrier-based advanced jet trainer for the United States Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) competition to replace the T-45 Goshawk. "ITS" stands for "Integrated Training System". Leonardo is collaborating with Textron Aviation in the pitch. It is competing with the Lockheed Martin-KAI TF-50N and a navalised variant of the Boeing-Saab AB T-7 Red Hawk.<ref name="FlightGlobal 28Mar24">{{cite web |last1=Tegler |first1=Jan |title=US Navy could begin replacing some T-45 jet trainers by 2026 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/us-navy-could-begin-replacing-some-t-45-jet-trainers-by-2026/157558.article |website=FlightGlobal}}</ref><ref name="AvWeek 7Sep23">{{cite web |last1=Everstine |first1=Brian |title=U.S. Navy Is Steaming Ahead On A New Trainer |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/us-navy-steaming-ahead-new-trainer |website=Aviation Week}}</ref> ; M-346FGA (Fighter Ground Attack) : Designation of multirole variant used for the Nigerian Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://airforce.mil.ng/news/enhancing-naf-combat-power-cas-leads-technical-team-to-italy-for-m-346-jet-aw-109-trekker-heli-procurement1370846448|title=Nigerian Air Force &#124; Enhancing NAF Combat Power: CAS Leads Technical Team to Italy for M-346 Jet, AW-109 Trekker Heli Procurement|website=Laravel}}</ref>

== Operators == thumb|350x350px|Operators of the M-346 (in blue)

=== Current operators ===

==== Training aircraft ==== ;{{flag|Greece}} (10 in service) : The Hellenic Air Force has ten M-346 Block 5+ "Silver Hawks".<ref name="auto3">{{Cite web |last=GDC |date=2021-08-29 |title=Italian Leonardo Scored Major M-346 Trainer Deal From Egypt, Greece, Poland and Turkmenistan |url=https://www.globaldefensecorp.com/2021/08/30/italian-leonardo-scored-major-m-346-trainer-deal-from-egypt-poland-and-turkmenistan/ |access-date=2021-08-30 |website=Global Defense Corp |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Fulbright |first1=Alexander |title=Greece okays $1.68 billion defense deal with Israel |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/greece-okays-1-68-billion-defense-deal-with-israel/ |website=The Times of Israel |date=5 January 2021 |issn=0040-7909}}</ref> The first two delivered in May 2023, all delivered by September 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theaviationist.com/2023/05/12/first-m-346-trainers-delivered-to-greece/|title=First M-346 Trainers Delivered To Greece|first=Stefano|last=D'Urso|date=12 May 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=M-346 Block 5+ |url=https://www.haf.gr/en/equipment/m-346-block-5/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250913200601/https://www.haf.gr/en/equipment/m-346-block-5/ |archive-date=13 September 2025 |access-date=2025-12-02 |work=Hellenic Air Force |language=el-GR |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Σταύρου | first=Ελισάβετ | title=Τα νέα «γεράκια» αλλάζουν τα δεδομένα: Η εκπαίδευση στα M-346 και τα εντυπωσιακά αποτελέσματα στα ΣΜΕΤ | website=OnAlert | date=2025-09-23 | url=https://www.onalert.gr/eksoplismoi/ta-nea-gerakia-allazoyn-ta-dedomena-i-ekpaideysi-sta-m-346-kai-ta-entyposiaka-apotelesmata-sta-smet/640519/ | language=el | access-date=2025-09-30}}</ref> ; {{flag|Israel}} (30) : The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has 30 trainers in operation, locally designated M-346i "Lavi". Ordered in 2012, delivered from 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |title=first two M-346 aircraft delivered to the Israeli Air Force |url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/news-and-stories-detail/-/detail/first-two-m-346-aircraft-delivered-to-the-israeli-air-force |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=www.leonardo.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=June 9, 2016 |title=Brig. Gen. Shmuel Tzuker of the Israeli Ministry of Defence visits Venegono for the delivery of the last of 30 Israeli M-346 aircraft |url=http://www.leonardocompany.com/en/-/israel-30-m346-israele |access-date=June 10, 2016 |publisher=Leonardo}}</ref> : The deal was made with common interest, Italy ordered three Israeli Gulfstream E-550A CAEW AEW&C aircraft and reconnaissance satellites being built by Israel Aerospace Industries.<ref name="timesofisrael.com"/> ; {{flag|Italy}} (22 in service, 20 on order) : Italy operates 42 T-346, in two different categories: :* Italian Air Force :** 6 T-346A ordered in June 2009<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-06-04 |title=History of the M-346: Development of the M-346A “Master” |url=https://militaeraktuell.at/en/the-history-of-the-leonardo-m-346-part-4-development-of-the-m-346a-master/ |access-date=2025-12-10 |language=en-US}}</ref> :** 3 T-346A ordered in December 2014<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stevenson |first=Beth |title=Italian air force acquires three more M-346 trainers |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/italian-air-force-acquires-three-more-m-346-trainers/115476.article |access-date=2025-12-10 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref> :** 9 T-346A ordered in March 2016, all delivered by February 2018<ref name="ItalyCompleteJanes" /> :** 20 ordered in December 2024:<ref>{{Cite web |title=XIX Legislatura - Lavori - Atti del Governo sottoposti a parere |url=https://www.camera.it/leg19/682?atto=197&tipoAtto=atto&idLegislatura=19&tab= |website=www.camera.it}}</ref> :*** 5 T-346A for training<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peruzzi |first=Luca |date=2025-12-08 |title=Nuovi dettagli sul programma di acquisizione di 20 nuovi velivoli M-346 – Analisi Difesa |url=https://www.analisidifesa.it/2024/09/nuovi-dettagli-sul-programma-di-acquisizione-di-20-nuovi-velivoli-m-346/ |access-date=2025-12-10 |language=it-IT}}</ref> :*** 15 T-346 PAN ordered in September 2024 for the Frecce Tricolori<ref>{{Cite web |title=M-346, alla scoperta del nuovo velivolo delle Frecce Tricolori |url=https://www.leonardo.com/it/focus-detail/-/detail/m-346-nuovo-velivolo-frecce-tricolori |access-date=2025-12-10 |website=www.leonardo.com |language=it-IT}}</ref> :* International Flight Training School (run by the Italian Air Force and Leonardo) :** 4 T-346A belonging to Leonardo delivered as of May 2020<ref>{{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2025-06-12 |title=International Flight Training School: Phase 4 training, Italian style |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/international-flight-training-school-phase-4-training-italian-style |access-date=2025-12-10 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}</ref> ; {{flag|Poland}} (16 delivered, 1 crashed) : The Polish Air Force received 16 aircraft, designated M-346 "Bielik" (operated at 41st Training Air Base in Dęblin)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Herk |first=Hans van |title=Polish Air Force M346 delivery |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/polish-air-force-m346-delivery |access-date=2021-04-14 |website=www.scramble.nl |date=25 October 2020 |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Wilk |first1=Remigiusz |date=16 January 2018 |title=Poland opts for additional Leonardo M-346 Master jet trainers |url=http://www.janes.com/article/77073/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180116151255/http://www.janes.com/article/77073/poland-opts-for-additional-leonardo-m-346-master-jet-trainers |archive-date=16 January 2018 |access-date=16 January 2018 |website=IHS Jane's 360 |location=Warsaw}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Aerospace, Defence and Security |url=https://www.leonardo.com/en/home |access-date=22 April 2023 |website=www.leonardo.com}}</ref><ref name="Herk2">{{Cite web |last=Herk |first=Hans van |title=Polish Air Force orders four more M346s |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/polish-air-force-orders-four-more-m346s |access-date=2021-04-14 |website=www.scramble.nl |date=5 February 2021 |language=en-GB}}</ref> :* Eight ordered in 2014 with an option for four aircraft,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Finmeccanica: Alenia Aermacchi signs a EUR 280 million contract with Poland for eight M-346 |url=https://www.aerocontact.com//en/aerospace-aviation-news/44548-finmeccanica-alenia-aermacchi-signs-a-eur-280-million-contract-with-poland-for-eight-m-346 |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=www.aerocontact.com |language=en}}</ref> delivered between November 2016 and October 2017<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Herk |first=Hans van |date=2021-02-05 |title=Polish Air Force orders four more M346s |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/polish-air-force-orders-four-more-m346s |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=www.scramble.nl |language=en-GB}}</ref> :* Four contracted in March 2018 with an option for four aircraft, delivered between October and November 2020<ref name=":3" /> :* Four contracted in February 2021,<ref name=":3" /> delivered in December 2022<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-16 |title=Leonardo delivered the final batch of four M-346 aircraft to Polish Air Force |url=https://defence-industry.eu/leonardo-delivered-the-final-batch-of-four-m-346-aircraft-to-polish-air-force/ |access-date=2024-04-29 |language=en}}</ref> : Of the 16 delivered, 1 crashed in 2024.<ref>{{cite web |date=12 July 2024 |title=Polish Air Force M-346 Demo Aircraft Crashes in Gdynia |url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/07/12/polish-air-force-m-346-demo-aircraft-crashes-in-gdynia/}}</ref> ; {{flag|Qatar}} (6) : The Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) operates six M-346 trainers as part of an agreement in 2010 with Leonardo and the Italian Air Force to be used at the International Flight Training School for Phase 4 training for Qatari pilots.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kington |first=Tom |date=2022-01-27 |title=Leonardo confirms Qatar as latest M-346 jet trainer client |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2022/01/27/leonardo-confirms-qatar-as-latest-m-346-jet-trainer-client/ |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref> :* Three delivered as of January 2022<ref>{{cite web |date=2022-01-26 |title=Qatar receives M-346 jet trainers |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/qatar-receives-m-346-jet-trainers |access-date=2022-01-29 |work=Jane's}}</ref> :* All delivered as of 2024<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024 |title=World Air Forces |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260302232759/https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 |archive-date=2026-03-02 |access-date=2026-03-09 |website=www.flightglobal.com |page=28}}</ref> ; {{flag|Singapore}} (12) : The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has twelve trainers in service, based in Cazaux Air Base, France (Advanced Jet Trainer Programme)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/press_room/official_releases/nr/2014/sep/03sep14_nr2.html|title=MINDEF Singapore|access-date=15 May 2017|archive-date=5 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140905042757/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/press_room/official_releases/nr/2014/sep/03sep14_nr2.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=ST Aerospace and Alenia Aermacchi will deliver the last of the 12 M-346 |url=http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/-/st-aerospace-and-alenia-aermacchi-deliver-last-12-m346-to-rsaf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903085434/http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/-/st-aerospace-and-alenia-aermacchi-deliver-last-12-m346-to-rsaf |archive-date=2014-09-03}}</ref> The order was made in September 2010 and the delivery in 2013-2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Govindasamy |first=Siva |title=Singapore confirms order for M-346 trainer |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/singapore-confirms-order-for-m-346-trainer/96066.article |date=2010-09-28 |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=FlightGlobal |language=en |url-access=registration }}</ref> ; {{flag|Turkmenistan}} (6) : The Turkmen Air Force ordered four M-346 FA and two M-346DR/FT.<ref name="auto3"/><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 May 2020 |title=Il Turkmenistan acquista in Italia |url=https://www.aresdifesa.it/il-turkmenistan-acquista-in-italia}}</ref>

=== Orders === ; {{flag|Austria}} (12 on order, 12 on option) : The Austrian Air Force ordered twelve M-346FA.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Das Bundesheer bekommt neue Leonardo M-346FA |website=militaeraktuell.at |url=https://militaeraktuell.at/das-bundesheer-bekommt-neue-leonardo-m-346fa/ |date=2024-12-28 |access-date=2024-12-30}}</ref> Deliveries will be in two batches of six aircraft and, in addition, there are options for two further batches of six aircraft each. In the ex ante notice by the Italian Ministry of Defense<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-05 |title=MINISTERO DELLA DIFESA SEGRETARIATO GENERALE DELLA DIFESA E DIREZIONE NAZIONALE DEGLI ARMAMENTI - Direzione degli Armamenti - Aeronautici e per l’Aeronavigabilità: 1° Reparto – 2°Divisione |url=https://www.difesa.it/assets/allegati/63000/dac0000047del05052025.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260211203143/https://www.difesa.it/assets/allegati/63000/dac0000047del05052025.pdf |archive-date=2026-02-11 |access-date=2026-03-09 |website=www.difesa.it |language=it}}</ref> it is specified that the order will include armaments such as the 20mm Nexter gun pod, LAU32 rocket launchers, active self-protection SPEAR AECM EW pods from Elbit Systems, Full Mission Simulators and the integration of the Link 16 and the Air-to-air IRIS-T missile.<ref>{{Cite web |title=M-346FA für das Bundesheer: Details zum Trainingsjet-Kauf |website=militaeraktuell.at |url=https://militaeraktuell.at/m-346fa-bundesheer-trainingsjet-kauf/ |date=2025-05-25 |access-date=2025-07-13}}</ref> ; {{flag|Canada}} - ITPS (6 on order) : ITPS Canada, which provides training capacity to NATO forces, ordered 6 M-346 T Block 20 jet trainers in May 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-05-26 |title=ITPS Canada orders Leonardo M-346 T Block 20 aircraft to expand allied fighter pilot training |url=https://defence-industry.eu/itps-canada-orders-leonardo-m-346-t-block-20-aircraft-to-expand-allied-fighter-pilot-training/ |access-date=2026-05-26 |language=en-US}}</ref> ; {{flag|Nigeria}} (24 on order) : In 2021, the Nigerian Air Force ordered twelve M-346FA (+ twelve options).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nigeria To Buy M-346, Official Says &#124; Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/light-attack-advanced-training/nigeria-buy-m-346-official-says |website=aviationweek.com}}</ref> The deal was reportedly $1.2 billion for twenty-four M-346 aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 May 2021 |title=Nigeria Ordered 24 M-346FA Aircraft Worth $1.2 Billion |url=https://www.globaldefensecorp.com/2021/05/07/nigeria-ordered-24-m-346fa-aircraft}}</ref> In October 2024, it was confirmed that the order was for twenty-four aircraft, deliveries were expected to begin in early 2025.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nigeria outlines M-346FA delivery schedule |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/nigeria-outlines-m-346fa-delivery-schedule/160526.article |website=FlightGlobal |access-date=30 July 2025 |date=30 October 2024}}</ref>

== Accidents and incidents == *On 11 May 2013, an Alenia-operated M-346 crashed near the village of Piana Crixia, in Val Bormida, between the provinces of Cuneo and Savona, Italy, during a test flight. The pilot was able to eject successfully and survived the crash, but received serious injuries after jumping from the tree where his parachute had been entangled.<ref name="auto">{{Citation |language= it |title= Cade aereo militare sperimentale salvo pilota |url= http://ansa.it/web/notizie/rubriche/cronaca/2013/05/11/Cade-aereo-militare-sperimentale-salvo-pilota_8691288.html |place= IT |publisher= Ansa}}.</ref> The type was grounded for more than three months while the cause of the crash was investigated.<ref>Pocock, Chris. [http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2013-08-09/m346-jet-trainer-still-grounded-after-second-crash "M346 Jet Trainer Still Grounded After Second Crash."] ''AIN Online'', 9 August 2014.</ref> * On 12 July 2024, a Polish Air Force M-346 "Bielik" crashed near Gdynia. The pilot, major Robert Jeł was killed.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-12 |title=Wypadek samolotu podczas ćwiczeń w Gdyni |url=https://tvn24.pl/trojmiasto/gdynia-wypadek-samolotu-podczas-cwiczen-st8000796 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=TVN24 |language=pl}}</ref><ref name="auto1"/>

==Specifications (M-346)== right|300px|Orthographic projection of the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master thumb|Video of a M-346 in flight, 2011 thumb|An M-346 at "Giornata Azzurra" 2006 at Pratica di Mare AFB, Italy

{{Aircraft specs |ref=Alenia Aermacchi;<ref name="AlenAer M-346 broch">[http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/en-US/Media/Lists/ProductBrochures-Brochures/M-346.pdf "M-346 Master."] ''Alenia Aermacchi'', June 2012. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508223857/http://www.aleniaaermacchi.it/en-US/Media/Lists/ProductBrochures-Brochures/M-346.pdf |date=May 8, 2014}}</ref> Leonardo<ref name="Brochure Leonardo M-346">{{cite web |url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/documents/20142/3150746/M-346_brochure.pdf |title=M-346 Master Advanced Jet Trainer, Aggressor, Fighter |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007210329/https://www.leonardocompany.com/documents/20142/3150746/M-346_brochure.pdf |archive-date=2020-10-07 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/products/m-346 |title=M-346 Master in training |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007210415/https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/products/m-346 |archive-date=2020-10-07 |url-status=live}}</ref> |prime units?=met <!-- General characteristics --> |crew=2 |length m=11.49 |length note= |span m=9.72 |span note= |height m=4.76 |height note= |wing area sqm=23.52 |wing area note= |aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes --> |airfoil= |empty weight kg=4900 |empty weight note= |gross weight kg=6700 |gross weight note= |max takeoff weight kg=9600 |max takeoff weight note=trainer<ref name="Brochure M-346, Leonardo web site">{{cite web|url=https://aircraft.leonardo.com/documents/16114715/17989163/Aermacchi%2BM-346_brochure_ENG_new.pdf?t=1602499684962|title=Brochure M-346 Dual Role|publisher=Leonardo|date=|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610034716/https://aircraft.leonardo.com/documents/16114715/17989163/Aermacchi+M-346_brochure_ENG_new.pdf?t=1602499684962|archive-date=10 June 2022|access-date=10 June 2022|author=}}</ref> |fuel capacity={{cvt|2000|kg|0}} internal |more general= <!-- Powerplant --> |eng1 number=2 |eng1 name=Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-200 |eng1 type=turbofan engines |eng1 kn=28 |eng1 note= <!-- Performance --> |max speed kmh=1090 |max speed note=<ref name="Brochure M-346, Leonardo web site"/> |max speed mach=0.95<ref name= "nato earlyflights">{{cite web|url=https://www.sto.nato.int/publications/STO%20Meeting%20Proceedings/RTO-MP-SCI-162/MP-SCI-162-13.pdf|title=Early Flights Achievement with the Aermacchi M-346 Advanced Trainer|publisher=NATO Science and Technology Organization|date=|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610041854/https://www.sto.nato.int/publications/STO%20Meeting%20Proceedings/RTO-MP-SCI-162/MP-SCI-162-13.pdf|archive-date=10 June 2022|access-date=10 June 2022|author=}}</ref> |cruise speed kmh= |cruise speed note= |stall speed kmh=176 |stall speed note= |never exceed speed kmh=1470 |never exceed speed note= / M1.2 |minimum control speed kmh= |minimum control speed note= |range km=1925 |range note= |combat range km= |combat range note= |ferry range km=2550 |ferry range note=with 3 external drop tanks |endurance=2 hours 45 minutes (4 hours with external drop tanks) |ceiling m=13716 |ceiling note= |g limits=<big>+</big>8 <big>-</big>3 |roll rate=<!-- aerobatic --> |climb rate ms=112 |climb rate note=<ref name="Brochure M-346, Leonardo web site"/> |time to altitude= |wing loading kg/m2=285 |wing loading note= |fuel consumption kg/km= |power/mass= |thrust/weight=0.84 |more performance=<!--<br /> *'''Take-off run:''' {{cvt||m|0}} *'''Take-off run to {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt||m|0}} *'''Landing run:''' {{cvt||m|0}} *'''Landing run from {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt||m|0}}--> <!-- Armament --> |armament= * '''Hardpoints:''' Provision for a total of seven pylon stations (one× under-fuselage, four× under-wing plus two× wingtip), capable of mounting up to {{convert|3,000|kg|lk=on}} of external payload and up to three× {{convert|630|L|lk=on}} external drop tanks (only under-fuselage and two inward wing pylons are wet-plumbed) ** Gun pods: *** FN Herstal HMP250<ref>{{cite web | url=https://fnamerica.com/products/fn-airborne-pod-systems/fn-hmp250-pod/| title=FN® HMP250 Pod}}</ref> 12.7mm machine gun *** Nexter 20mm M621 cannon<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.joint-forces.com/defence-equipment-news/65141-new-20mm-cannon-pod-for-m-346fa | title=New 20mm Cannon Pod For M-346FA | date=22 June 2023}}</ref> ** Air-to-air missiles: *** AIM-9 Sidewinder *** I-Derby ER<ref>https://www.rafael.co.il/system/i-derby-er/</ref> *** IRIS-T <ref>https://militaeraktuell.at/bundesheer-leonardo-m-346fa-kampfflugzeug//</ref> ** Air-to-surface missiles: *** AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missile ** Anti-ship missiles: *** Marte MK-2A anti-ship missiles ** Mark 82 500lb and Mark-83 1,000lb free-fall or retarded bombs<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/yak/ | title=M-346 Master Advanced Fighter Trainer}}</ref>

|avionics= *'''Radar''': Grifo-M346 radar (M-346FA) }}

==See also== {{Portal|Aviation}} {{aircontent |see also= |related= * Yakovlev Yak-130 |similar aircraft= * AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle * Boeing T-7 Red Hawk * Hongdu L-15 * KAI T-50 Golden Eagle * TAI Hürjet |lists= }}

==References== {{Reflist}}

==External links== {{Commons}} * {{Citation |place= IT |url= http://www.leonardocompany.com/-/m-346 |title= M-346 |type= product page |publisher= Leonardo}}. * {{youTube |bA1bBQ_P_7E|Officially released video of Alenia Aermacchi T-100}}

{{Alenia Aermacchi aircraft}} {{Aermacchi aircraft}} {{Italian military aircraft}} {{Portal bar|Italy|Companies|Aviation}} {{Authority control}}

M-346 Category:2000s Italian military trainer aircraft Category:Twinjets Category:Aircraft first flown in 2004 Category:Mid-wing aircraft Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear