13 June 2025 | Rome, Italy – The Italian Air Force has officially introduced the Leonardo M-345 (designated T-345A) into active service, marking a significant advancement in the country’s military pilot training capabilities. The new trainer has joined the 61st Wing at Galatina Air Base, replacing the long-serving MB-339 (T-339A) and reinforcing Italy’s leading role in global pilot training programs.
Designed, developed, and manufactured at Leonardo’s facility in Venegono Superiore (Varese, Italy), the M-345 joins the M-346 in forming a comprehensive, next-generation training fleet. Together, these aircraft cover the entire pilot training spectrum—from initial basic instruction through to advanced tactical training.
Building on a Legacy of Excellence
The M-345 draws on decades of Leonardo’s experience in military aviation training, with a lineage that includes the iconic SF-260, MB-326, and the widely used MB-339—which has trained Italian and international pilots for more than 40 years. The MB-339 also famously served as the aircraft of Italy’s Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team, which is now transitioning to the M-346.
The addition of the M-345 ensures that the Italian Air Force operates Europe’s most modern fixed-wing military training system, offering advanced capabilities at reduced operational costs.
Jet Performance, Turboprop Efficiency
Delivering the performance of a jet with operating costs comparable to a turboprop, the M-345 offers a cost-effective solution for modern air forces. The aircraft supports both basic and intermediate phases of pilot training (Phases II and III), making it a highly versatile component of the training pipeline.
Thanks to its fully digital avionics suite and a sophisticated human–machine interface, the M-345 effectively prepares pilots for the cockpit of next-generation combat aircraft.
Sustainable Technology and Mission Readiness
Powered by the Williams FJ44-4M-34 turbofan, tailored for military use, the M-345 combines high efficiency and performance with reduced fuel consumption. It features a health and usage monitoring system (HUMS) that supports lower maintenance needs and maximizes operational availability.
The state-of-the-art cockpit includes three color touchscreen multifunction displays (MFDs) and a head-up display (HUD). A stepped tandem seating configuration with HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick) controls allows pilots to keep hands on the main controls throughout the mission, while enjoying superior external visibility.
Integrated Training Ecosystem
The M-345 is part of a broader Integrated Training System, which includes advanced ground-based training tools. These systems improve cost-efficiency, learning outcomes, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the standards of modern air forces.
A Unified, World-Class Solution
Together with the M-346, Leonardo’s M-345 offers a seamless and scalable training solution—from basic instruction to combat-readiness. This dual-aircraft system ensures smooth progression through training phases, reducing training time and increasing pilot proficiency.
With the M-345 now operational, Italy further cements its position as a global leader in advanced military pilot training, offering a model for future-ready, cost-effective, and sustainable aviation training programs.
