Role Basic/advanced trainer and light attack aircraftNational origin Italy
Manufacturer Leonardo S.p.A. (ex Alenia Aermacchi)
First flight 29 December 2016
(M-345 prototype)
21 December 2018 (M-345
production aircraft[2])
Primary user Italian Air Force
Number built 4
Developed from SIAI-Marchetti S.211
The Aermacchi M-345 is a compact twin-seat shoulder-wing monoplane trainer aircraft. It is based on the earlier S.211 and features structural and equipment improvements, and new systems. The airframe has been strengthened, while a glass cockpit and modern avionics have been installed. It is furnished with a retractable tricycle landing gear, powered by a single Williams FJ44-4M-34 turbofan engine. As a basic trainer, the M-345 is designed to complement the Aermacchi M-346 advanced jet trainer. It has been designed with a secondary close air support capability, being furnished with four underwing hard points.
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In May 2020, the M-345 achieved its initial military certification. During January 2021, the IAF inducted its first pair of M-345 trainers; the type will replace the MB-339A as the service's second and third phases of its pilot training programme
During January 2017, Italy placed an initial order for five M-345s for the Italian Air Force (IAF)
Learn all about the Aermacchi MB-339 with Curator of Aviation Eric Boehm.