[Avionics Today March 21, 2014] Alenia Aermacchi rolled the first M-346 advanced trainer aircraft out for the Israeli Air & Space Force at its plant in Venegono Superiore, Italy.
M-346. Photo, courtesy of Elbit Systems.
The M-346, a derivative of the Yak-130, is equipped with fully digital flight controls and avionics designed to provide lead-in training for Israeli fighter pilots. The Israeli Ministry of Defence (IMOD) is looking to use the M-346 to replace its fleet of TA-4 Skyhawk trainer aircraft.
Poland recently became the fourth customer for the M-346, following Italy, Singapore and Israel. First delivery to the IMOD is scheduled for summer 2014.
Currently, the M-346 is in service with both the Italian and Singapore Air Force.