Aermacchi M-346 Master

Summary

Category Training aircraft
Origin country 🇮🇹 Italy
First flight15 July 2004
Year of introduction2015
Number produced92 units

Description

The Aermacchi M-346 Master is a modern military aircraft developed by the Italian aerospace company Leonardo S.p.A. It was designed as an advanced trainer with the capability of conducting combat missions. The development of the M-346 Master began in the late 1990s, and it entered service in 2014. The aircraft has been employed by various air forces around the world for training purposes, enhancing pilot skills, and transitioning to high-performance fighter aircraft. Its advanced avionics and systems provide realistic simulation of complex operational scenarios, helping pilots develop their tactical abilities. Additionally, the M-346 Master has the potential to be upgraded for combat roles, such as light attack or reconnaissance missions.

Technical specifications

Version: M-346
Crew2 members
Maximum speed 1092 km/h (679 mph)
Wing area23.5 m² (253.2 sqft)
Wingspan9.7 m (31.9 ft)
Height4.8 m (15.6 ft)
Length11.5 m (37.7 ft)
Service ceiling13716 m (45000 ft)
Empty weight4610 kg (10163 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight9500 kg (20944 lbs)
Climb rate127.0 m/s (416.7 ft/s)
Takeoff distance320 m (1050 ft)
Powerplant2 × turbojets Honeywell F124-GA-200 delivering 2835 kgp
Ejection seatMartin-Baker Mk 16

Current operating countries

Country Units
Israel Israel 30
Italy Italy 22
Poland Poland 16
Singapore Singapore 12
Qatar Qatar 6
Turkmenistan Turkmenistan 6
Greece Greece 0 (+10)

Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.

All operators

GreeceIsraelItalyPolandQatarSingaporeTurkmenistan

Armament

Missiles payload:

  • Air-to-Surface AGM-65 Maverick
  • Air-to-Air Short-Range Raytheon AIM-9 Sidewinder

Bombs payload:

  • Low-Drag Mk 82
  • Low-Drag Mk 83