M-346
The M-346 Master is the only new generation advanced/lead-in fighter trainer currently available in Europe. The aircraft is tailored to train pilots to fly new generation combat aircraft and is well suited for every phase of advanced and pre-operational training, to reduce the flight hours on the more expensive aircraft. The aircraft embodies the latest “design-to-cost” and “design-to-maintain” concepts, with avionics modelled upon those of new generation military aircraft such as Eurofighter, Gripen, Rafale, F-16, F-22 and the future JSF.
The M-346 features innovative design solutions. Vortex lift aerodynamics, together with the full authority quadruplex Fly-by-Wire control system, allow the aircraft to remain fully controllable at angles of attack over 35° degrees. With this technological achievement, Alenia Aermacchi confirms it can autonomously design and manufacture advanced aircraft with Fly-by-Wire controls. This, combined with the twin-engine configuration and thrust/weight ration close to 1, translates into safety levels unattainable by its competitors. The M-346 also integrates digital avionics with the ability to simulate sensors and threats in flight. These characteristics and its performance make the M-346 the world’s leading tactical pre-operational training aircraft.
In November 2009 the Italian Air Force signed the contract about the first batch of 6 M-346, including also simulators and integrated logistic supports, to fulfill the advanced/lead-in fighter training requirements for pilots that will fly the future generation combat aircraft. This contract forms part of a broader agreement to supply a total of 15 M-346 and related support.
In February 2009 it was selected by the United Arab Emirates for their new training air fleet and the negotiations are at the last stage for the acquisition of a complete Integrated Training Solution comprehensive of 48 M-346. Furthermore, it is also in the short list (two competitors) in Singapore within the Fighter Wings Course (FWC).The M-346 programme also involves other Finmeccanica Group companies including Selex Galileo, Alenia SIA, Sirio Panel and Selex Communications. CAE, the world leader in simulation and integrated training solutions, is developing and validating the simulator for the Initial Training Capability. CAE enters the programme with Selex Galileo.
| Dimensions | ||
|---|---|---|
| span | 9.72 m | 31.89 ft |
| length | 11.49 m | 37.70 ft |
| height | 4.98 m | (16,33 ft) |
| wing area | 23.52 sqm | 253.20 sqft |
| | ||
| Weights | ||
| empty | 4,610 kg | 10.165 lb |
| takeoff (clean) | 6,700 kg | 14.770 lb |
| takeoff (maximum) | 9,500 kg | 20.945 lb |
| Power Plant | ||
| Honeywell | 2 x F-124GA-200 | |
| Thrust, max, SLS, ISA | 2 x 2,850 kg | 2 x 6.280 lb |
| Internal fuel (usable) | 2,000 kg | 4.410 lb |
| Performance (clean, ISA) | ||
| Max level speed (sea level) | 590 KTAS | |
| Limit speed | 572 KEAS / 1.2 MN | |
| Stall speed (landing, 20% fuel) | 90 KCAS | |
| Rate of climb (SL) | 21,000 ft/min | |
| Service ceiling | 45,000 ft | |
| Range / 3 ext. tanks (10% reserve) | 1,120 / 1,540 nm | |
| Max sustained Load Factor (S.L.) | 8.0 g | |
| Max sustained Load Factor (15,000 ft) | 5,8 g | |
| Max sustained Turn Rate (15,000 ft) | 14 deg/sec | |
| Takeoff ground run (S.L.) | 320 m | (1.050 ft) |
| Landing ground roll (S.L., 20% internal fuel) | 470 m | (1.540 ft) |
| Limit Load factor | + 8 / -3 g |