During a ceremony held at Istrana Air Base in Northeastern Italy on 12 September 2024 to celebrate the Italian Air Force's Frecce Tricolori aerobatic display team's return from a recent North American tour. The replacement for their trusty MB-339s, which have flown by the team since 1982, was unveiled. It was no real surprise that the Leonardo M-346 advanced jet trainer was chosen to power the team into the future.
The event also featured the public presentation of the Frecce Tricolori's fresh livery, crafted by Pininfarina and showcased on the exhibited M-346. As per the Italian Air Force, the updated design continues the concept of the 'revival of the tricolour' by amplifying the elegance and smoothness of the Frecce Tricolori's aerial manoeuvres with a visual scheme that aims to evoke a feeling of speed and energy.
The decision to replace the twin-engined M-346 for the Frecce Tricolori in the coming years rather than the single-engined Leonardo M-345 was initially questioned by some. Despite the higher operational costs associated with the M-346, the improved performance it provides was considered better suited for the demanding requirements of the display team's elaborate aerobatic formations.
While the M-345 can provide up to 1,540 kg of thrust in sea-level standard and international standard atmosphere (SLS/ISA) conditions, with a maximum speed of 670 km/h at sea level and 764 km/h at 30,000 ft, the M-346 is equipped with two Honeywell F124-GA-200 engines, each delivering 2,850 kg of thrust in SLS, ISA conditions. The M-346 can reach a maximum speed of 1,090 km/h at low altitudes.
The M-346 is now in service with the air forces of Italy, the Republic of Singapore, Israel, Poland, Qatar and Greece, while Turkmenistan and Nigeria have purchased the light fighter version. A total of 126 M-346s have been sold globally.
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