Le Bourget 18 June 2017 16:17
- The M-346FA is a further evolution of a family concept designed to create a common baseline able to rapidly meet the different requirements of the air forces
- The M-346FA will be equipped with the Leonardo Grifo-346 radar
- Several Air Forces are already demonstrating their interest in the M-346FA
Today at Le Bourget, ahead of the International Paris Air show which opens tomorrow, Leonardo will for the first time shoecase the new fighter attack version of the M-346, a further evolution of a family concept designed to create a common baseline, able to rapidly meet the different requirements of the air forces.
The M-346 Fighter Attack will be equipped with a dedicated variant of the Grifo multi-mode fire control radar, designed and manufactured by Leonardo.
This new version of the M-346 will take its place next to the two existing variants of the aircraft: the Advanced Jet Trainer and the multi-role M-346FT (Fighter Trainer). Leonardo has already carried out the studies for the FA’s radar installation and its mechanical integration with the aircraft.
The M-346FA’s characteristics make it not only an excellent advanced trainer, but also a light fighter aircraft capable of carrying out operational missions at far lower costs than those of front-line fighters. Several air forces have already expressed their interest in it.
With seven pylons for external loads, the M-346FA will retain the excellent capabilities of the M-346 family in the advanced and pre-operational training roles, but will also be able to operate very effectively as multi-role tactical aircraft, capable of air-to-surface, air-to-air and tactical reconnaissance missions.
The integration of the worldwide successful multi-mode Grifo radar will provide the M-346FA with unparalleled versatility and effectiveness, thanks to the availability of many specialized radar modes both Air-to-Air and Air-to-Surface.