Leonardo Launches M-346FA Fighter Attack Aircraft Variant
Italian aerospace and defence firm Leonardo introduced the M-346FA (Fighter Attack) aircraft in June 2017, positioning it as a new variant derived from the Aermacchi M-346 twin-engine advanced trainer aircraft. This specific variant, the Leonardo M-346fa Fighter Attack Aircraft, is engineered to deliver enhanced mission performance capabilities for air forces operating in diverse operational theatres.
The M-346FA combat aircraft is highly versatile and can be effectively deployed in various ground support functions. These include air-to-ground attack missions, tactical strikes, close air support (CAS), counter-insurgency (COIN) operations, and interdiction using precision-guided munitions. Its capabilities also extend to pilot training, air-to-air combat scenarios, air policing duties, airborne tactical reconnaissance, and critical airspace control missions. This variant builds upon the successful M-346 family, which previously included the M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) and the multi-role M-346FT (Fighter Trainer). Users seeking details on related configurations might also be interested in the best lightweight fighter aircraft options available today.
M-346FA Advanced Digital Cockpit
The Leonardo M-346fa Fighter Attack Aircraft features a sophisticated digital glass cockpit designed to comfortably accommodate two crew members seated in a tandem configuration.
This advanced cockpit system incorporates state-of-the-art technology, including multi-function LCD displays, a head-up display (HUD), night vision goggle (NVG) compatibility, a voice command system, a self-protection system suite, helmet-mounted display (HMD) systems, and comprehensive navigation and communication tools. A traffic collision avoidance system is also integrated to enhance flight safety. The aircraft benefits from an onboard four-channel fly-by-wire flight control system, which significantly contributes to increased mission reliability and overall flight safety during challenging maneuvers and operations.
Potent M-346FA Armament Capabilities
With a maximum take-off weight capacity of 10,400kg, the M-346FA combat aircraft is capable of carrying a substantial variety of external loads. These payloads can include GPS-guided, laser-guided, or unguided air-to-air and air-surface weapons, various types of bombs, and dedicated targeting pods. This allows the aircraft to engage a wide range of both air and surface-based targets with precision.
The aircraft is equipped with a total of seven pylon stations strategically positioned for mounting weaponry and external stores. These stations are capable of carrying potent air-to-air missiles such as the Iris-T and AIM-9L, various rocket launchers, small diameter bombs (SDB), and a range of Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) including the 500lb GBU-38 and 1,000lb GBU-32. Laser-guided bomb options include the 500lb Lizard 2 and Lizard 4 (GPS/LGB), as well as GBU-12/16 Paveway II (500lb/1,000lb) and the 500lb GBU-49 Enhanced Paveway II (GPS/LGB). It can also carry standard general-purpose bombs like the 500lb MK.82HD Snakeye and 1,000lb MK.83. For additional firepower, a gun pod can be easily fitted to house aircraft ammunition. Furthermore, the external hardpoints can carry target designation and tactical reconnaissance pods, enabling the detection and location of targets under both day and night conditions. Exploring the best light fighter aircraft options often involves comparing payload capacities like these.
Sensors and Countermeasures Suite
The M-346FA light attack aircraft is outfitted with Leonardo’s Grifo multi-role and multi-mode X-band fire control radar. This advanced radar system is designed to efficiently search for and track single or multiple targets across air-to-air, air-to-surface, and air combat modes.
Complementing the radar is a comprehensive sensor suite. This includes a secure net-centric communications system, a tactical data link for enhanced battlefield awareness, an identification friend or foe (IFF) interrogator system, and a radar cross-section reduction kit to minimize detectability. For protection against threats, a defensive aids sub-system (DASS) is installed. The DASS package consists of essential components such as a radar warning receiver (RWR), a missile approach warning system (MAWS), chaff and flare dispensers to decoy incoming missiles, and the aforementioned radar cross-section reduction kit. Electronic warfare pods can also be fitted to the aircraft’s wingtips, providing capabilities to counter enemy radars and detection systems effectively. This array of features solidifies the M-346FA’s standing as a formidable light attack aircraft.
M-346FA Engine and Performance
The leonardo m-346fa fighter attack aircraft is powered by two reliable Honeywell F124-GA-200 turbofan engines. Each of these engines is capable of generating a maximum thrust of 2,850kg, providing the necessary power for its varied mission profiles.
These powerplants enable the aircraft to achieve a limit speed of 572kt and a maximum level speed of 590kt. The M-346FA boasts a service ceiling of 45,000ft and demonstrates a strong climb rate of 21,000ft per minute. Its structural integrity allows for a limit maneuvering load factor of 8g/-3g. The aircraft’s inherent high-fuel capacity provides an endurance of two hours and 40 minutes. This flight time can be significantly extended to approximately four hours with the addition of up to three 630l external fuel tanks. Furthermore, the aircraft is equipped for air-to-air refueling, crucial for extending both time-on-station during combat missions and overall long-range endurance sorties. The performance metrics make the m-346fa fighter attack aircraft a capable platform.
Overall, the Leonardo M-346FA variant represents a significant advancement in the light fighter attack aircraft category, combining advanced training capabilities with robust combat performance, armament options, and modern avionics, positioning it as a versatile asset for modern air forces.