Aviation News – Leonardo has signed a contract to deliver 12 M-346 F Block 20 aircraft to the Austrian Air Force.
The deal strengthens Austria’s airspace defence and modernizes military pilot training with a proven multirole platform.
The contract was signed with the Italian Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness on behalf of Austria’s Luftstreitkräfte. It covers not only the aircraft but also simulation systems for pilot and maintenance technician training, spare parts, equipment, and six years of logistical support following the delivery of the first aircraft, scheduled for 2028. With this order, total global sales of the M-346 approach 160 aircraft across 20 countries.
The M-346 F Block 20 is designed for advanced jet training and light multirole missions. It combines modern avionics, embedded tactical training, and high performance, allowing air forces to bolt advanced operational realism into pilot training while maintaining flexibility for national air defence tasks.
Photo Rob Vogelaar