Alenia remains optimistic over M-346 contract

摘要

Despite Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 being selected by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at IDEX two years ago with much fanfare, this year's show has rolled around with a contract for the UAE requirement - for 48 lead-in fighter trainer and light attack variants - remaining unsigned. While reports emerged in January 2010 of rival KAI attempting to re-enter the fray with its T-50 Golden Eagle, Alenia officials remain patiently hopeful that the UAE trainer contract can be secured within the year.