A new version for the M-346
Leonardo-Finmeccanica presented a new multirole variant of its training aircraft M-346. The new version called M-346FT must allow operators to use either as a coach or as specialized attack aircraft light soil-guerrilla.
The battle-trainer variant M-346FT is the result of a development of a duration of approximately 24 months from the Italian manufacturer. The main differences in the new version are the weapons and a data link equipment and tactics against electronic measures.
A reply to several requests:
This new variant of the M-346 should allow current users to power through the board armament prepare pilots to ground attack with modern means. But this new version can also come compete with existing Embraer EMB-312 "Super Tucano" and Beechraft AT-6 including the markets of the cons-insurgency and anti-guerilla. The new platform offers growth potential in terms of sensors and other weapons, according to the aircraft manufacturer. The new M-346FT version should fly this year and will be certified in 2018
The main features of the Aermacchi M-346FT:
C-Twin engine and type commands fly-by-wire quadruple configuration for redundancy and improved operational safety.
refueling capability in flight for long range missions or extended operational persistence.
High speed at low altitude and high slew rate.
Network Communication centered.
Data Link tactics.
Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)
Distributor Chaff and Flares (CFD)
kit for reducing the radar signature.
Paveways Bomb II GBU-12 (500 lb.) LGB.
Enhanced Paveways Bomb GBU-49 (500 lbs) GPS / LGB.
Lizard Bomb 2 LGB
Bomb GBU-38 JDAM (500 lb).
Bomb Lizard 4 LGB (500 lb).
Small Diameter Bomb (SDB).
rocket launcher
Mk.82 Bomb (500 lb) for general use.
Bomb MK.82HD Snakeye (500 lb) for general use.
Gun pod
Air-to-Air missiles IR
auxiliary tank of 630 lt.
Recognition Pod.
Laser Designation Pod
