Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master
Leonardo / Alenia Aermacchi · Italy · first flew 2004 · fighter
The Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master is a twin-engine advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft developed jointly with Yakovlev before Italy continued the design independently. It features a modern glass cockpit, HOTAS controls, and AESA-radar-compatible systems.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 11.49 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Twin-engine advanced jet trainer with LERX leading-edge root extensions
- Side-mounted air intakes beneath a single-piece wraparound canopy
- Highly agile airframe with relaxed stability and fly-by-wire controls
Distinguished by its closely coupled twin turbofan intakes below a blended wing-body junction, prominent LERX, and a long single-piece canopy over tandem seats.
Specifications
- The Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master has a length of 11.49 m (38 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 9.72 m (32 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 1090 km/h (677 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 (tandem).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The M-346 evolved from the Yak-130 collaborative programme with Russia, which collapsed in 1999. Alenia Aermacchi continued development independently, with the first Italian prototype flying in July 2004. The type was selected by Italy, Israel (as the Lavi II), Singapore, and Poland, establishing itself as a leading Western advanced trainer.
Variants
The M-346FA (Fighter Attack) is a light combat variant with weapons systems integration. The T-100 designation was used in the USAF T-X competition. The Israeli Air Force designates it the Lavi.
Where you'll see it
In service with the Italian Air Force, Israeli Air Force, Singapore Air Force, and Polish Air Force. It is used as both an advanced trainer and a weapons system operator trainer.
Related aircraft
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