Leonardo M-345

Leonardo · Italy · first flew 2005 · light aircraft

The Leonardo (formerly Aermacchi) M-345 is an Italian single-engine advanced jet trainer designed as a cost-effective successor to the MB-339. Featuring a T-tail and a single Williams turbofan, it is optimised for basic and advanced jet training.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Low-mounted, swept
E — Engines	1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	9.85 m fuselage
T — Tail	T-tail

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Italian single-engine jet trainer with T-tail
Advanced replacement for the MB-339
Side-by-side seating in tandem cockpit

Small low-wing jet with a T-tail, single rear-fuselage intake, and tandem two-seat cockpit under a one-piece canopy. Resembles the MB-339 in general layout but has a more modern profile.

Specifications

The Leonardo M-345 has a length of 9.85 m (32 ft).
It has a wingspan of 8.47 m (28 ft).
Its maximum speed is 740 km/h (460 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Development of the M-345 was initiated by Aermacchi (later absorbed into Leonardo's aircraft division) in the 2000s to offer a modern, low-cost jet trainer. It first flew in 2005 and has undergone extensive certification and development. The Italian Air Force selected it as a replacement for the MB-339 fleet, with deliveries beginning in the early 2020s.

Variants

The M-345 HET (High Efficiency Trainer) is the primary marketed variant. An armed version was also proposed for the light attack/LIFT role.

Where you'll see it

Entering service with the Italian Air Force to replace the MB-339. Interest from other air forces has been expressed. Not operated by the UK.

Related aircraft

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