Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica company, has finalised with the United Arab Emirates two important contracts to provide the UAE Air Force with ten MB-339A aircraft in aerobatic configuration.
The two contracts cover the upgrading and supply of MB-339A to the National Aerobatic Team (NAT) configuration.
The agreement covered initially the conversion of six aircraft, already in the UAE inventory, followed by the acquisition of four additional MB-339.
The update consists mainly of removing the tip tanks, modifying the fuel system and installing smoke generators capable of releasing smoke trails in the white, red, green and black colours of the UAE flag.
Alenia Aermacchi is presently completing, in its Venegono factory, the work on the final four aircraft. This includes the application of an elegant and exclusive black and gold livery, specifically designed for the United Arab Emirates Display Team.
The UAE decision to equip its NAT with the Aermacchi MB-339 is an important indication of the excellent relationship between its Air Force and the Finmeccanica’s company.
Alenia Aermacchi is very honoured by the UAE appreciation of its aircraft, which are serving many valuable Air Forces worldwide. These include the Italian Air Force, that also uses the MB-339 to train its jet pilots and to equip its famous Frecce Tricolori team celebrating, this year, its 50th anniversary.

Source: Alenia