M-345

Overview Missions & features Technical data Contacts Related products

The M-345 is an innovative jet aircraft designed for basic and advanced training of military pilots, both Italian and from other countries' air forces. Developed and built at Leonardo's Venegono (Varese, Italy) site, it is designated T-345A by the Italian Air Force, with the letter T emphasising its role as a trainer.

Together with the M-346, it is an integral part of an integrated training system that includes advanced simulators, ground training devices and LVC (Live, Virtual and Constructive) technology, which allows real-time interaction between pilots (students and instructors) in flight or on the ground, simulators and computer-generated forces, offering complex and realistic tactical scenarios – a capability now provided by the M-346.

Missions & features

Integrated training solution

Derived from the experience in the M-346 programme and in line with the standards of the most advanced new-generation military jets, the M-345's digital avionics feature an innovative human-machine interface. The Leonardo Embedded Training System (L-ETS) suite allows the generation of increasingly complex multi-domain virtual tactical scenarios during training flights.

High efficiency

The M-345 offers an unmatched cost-effectiveness ratio: its new commercially derived engine reduces fuel consumption, operating costs, and environmental impact. At the same time, the innovative structural and systems monitoring system eliminates the need for the most demanding maintenance activities.

Visibility and Ergonomics

The cockpit architecture is consistent with that of latest-generation fighter aircraft. The tandem, stepped-seat configuration of the cockpit ensures excellent external visibility. The controls are HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick) type, allowing the pilot to operate key functions without removing their hands from the primary controls.