Latest Acquisitions for Italian Air Force

摘要

An initial contract for six T-346As was signed in November 2009, with the advanced trainer intended to replace the MB339CD (FT-339C) in the lead-in fighter training (LIFT) role. An initial batch of two T-346As (serials MM.55144 and 55145) has been delivered for an operational test and evaluation (OT&E) phase, to be carried out in 2012 by the Reparto Sperimentale Volo (RSV, Flying Test Wing). The first aircraft made its maiden flight on March 31, 2011, and was accepted by the Italian Air Force on November 14. It took part in the Dubai Air Show before being delivered to the RSV on January 12. The second aircraft was delivered on February 6, and two days later the two machines took off from Pratica di Mare for the Singapore Air Show. (This year Singapore's air force will receive the first of 12 M-346s it has on order.)