The M-346 is a jet aircraft optimised for advanced military pilot training, offering a broad range of training capabilities combined with long-term reliability. At the heart of a complex and integrated training system, the M-346 is already in service with the air forces of Italy, Singapore, Israel, Poland, Qatar and Greece.
Missions & Features
Digital capabilities
The M-346 – a twin-engine, tandem-seat aircraft with fully digital flight controls and avionics – is equipped with a fly-by-wire flight control system with quadruple redundancy, a modern human-machine interface with Head-Up Displays (HUD) and Multi-Function Displays (MFD), Hands On Throttle And Stick (HOTAS) controls and in-flight safety features such as the Pilot Activated Attitude Recovery System (PARS). The M-346 can operate in complete autonomy with the aid of its Auxiliary Power Unit (APU).
An integrated training system – ETTS, GBTS, ILS
The training system features integrated on-board technology to simulate tactical training – the Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS) – allowing the aircraft to emulate sensors, weapons and Computer Generated Forces (CGF). It also enables pilots to interact in real-time, through Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) training that features aircraft in flight (Live), simulators (Virtual) and computer-generated force/threat generated environments (Constructive).
The system is completed by the Ground Based Training System (GBTS), which consists of various flight and mission simulation systems, multi-media and classroom courses, mission planning and training management systems, and an integrated logistic support (ILS) service that optimises fleet and simulator management for maximum operational use.
Training effectiveness
The wide flight envelope, high thrust-to-weight ratio and ‘carefree’ manoeuvrability at high angles of attack make the M-346’s handling similar to that of next-generation combat aircraft, like the Eurofighter Typhoon or the F-35. This maximises training effectiveness and reduces flight hours on front line aircraft.
Operational training
The M-346 effectively fulfils tactical training tasks. It features a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD), a fully night vision device (NVG) compatible cockpit, voice commands, an in-flight refuelling probe and five hard-points for various external air-to-air and air-to-ground loads.
Aggressor and Companion Trainer capability
In exercises, the M-346 can effectively fulfil the Aggressor and Companion Trainer roles to keep combat pilots at the required level of operational readiness, providing air forces with the highest levels of efficiency, effectiveness, commonality, operational flexibility, and combat training capability.
Technical data
WING SPAN
9.72 m – 31.9 ft
LENGTH
11.49 m – 37.7 ft
MAXIMUM LEVEL SPEED
1,090 km/h - 590 KTAS
SERVICE CEILING
13,715 m- 45,000 ft
LIMIT LOAD FACTORS
+8/-3 g
POWERPLANT
2 Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofans
THRUST
2 x 2,850 kg - 2 x 6,280 lb
