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2024-09-12

Leonardo Levels Up M-346 Training Capabilities

The upgrade will equip pilots with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of modern multi-domain battlefields, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of contemporary combat air technology and information management.

The development, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow, harnesses the M-346’s inherent growth capability and 10 years of proven performance with leading air forces worldwide. The enhancement is a crucial component of Leonardo’s broader digitisation roadmap and aligns with the company’s long-term strategy.

By integrating advanced avionics, navigation, and mission systems, Leonardo ensures the M-346 remains at the forefront of pilot training.

New Standards

As such, both training and fighter variants will benefit from these enhancements to deliver even superior capabilities to the market for a wide spectrum of applications, while implying substantial margin for additional developments in the future. The ‘M-346 T Block 20’ and ‘M-346 F Block 20’ are the designations for the new standard.

The new Block 20 standard will not be limited to the platform itself, but rather to the entire system including the ground-based training system and shall be enabled by the widespread implementation of digitalisation powered by Artificial Intelligence.

The Block 20 standard cockpit will feature two large area displays, one per each seat, replacing the existing six multi-functional displays, plus a low-profile head-up display. These will be combined with a new digital video and data recorder and a new augmented reality helmet mounted display.

Human-Machine Interface

The new cockpit will synchronise the human-machine interface with the most advanced and future frontline combat air systems. The upgrade enhances training quality by providing a more realistic look and feel, coupled with a high-fidelity immersive environment. It also improves situational awareness during operational missions.

The ‘M-346 Block 20’ will also benefit from new navigation, weapon management, flight management system, IFF — Identification of Friend or Foe — transponder.

Specifically for the M-346 F variant, further critical capability enhancements include an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar featuring fire control radar capability, integration of new weapons for both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles in addition to a built-in missile datalink.

The Ground Based Training System (GBTS) adopts a holistic approach to training, integrating multimedia and classroom courses, flight and mission simulations, and virtual and live/constructive training.

Technical Support

Moreover, advanced digitisation will enable more efficient technical support thanks to the implementation of the virtual maintenance and the “connected fleet”, a high performing infrastructure, which uses Advanced Data Analytics and High-Performance Computing to enhance the Integrated Logistic Support services.

Lorenzo Mariani, Co-General Manager of Leonardo, elaborated: “Training represents a core area of expertise at Leonardo and the M-346 integrated training system is the backbone of our value proposition to ensure fighter pilots are well prepared to face modern and complex air challenges, today and in the future. As we are fully involved into next generation combat air developments, this latest progress of the M-346 testifies that we’re making sure the most appropriate training solutions are thoroughly embedded in this commitment.

We believe the type’s constantly evolving features will continue to deliver second-to-none benefits for users, both for training and operational / light fighter roles.”

Block 20 Breakthrough

Marco Zoff, Leonardo Aircraft MD, commented: “Delivering unending enhancements for the M-346 has been part and parcel of our DNA over years, and we’re excited with today’s announcement showing how the M-346 is and will stay at the forefront of technology. We’ve made significant investments into a 360° digital transformation to deliverstate-of-the-artproducts and services. We look forward to demonstrating the advanced features and possibilities of the Block 20 standard for both training and combat missions.”

With over 100 aircraft delivered globally and more than 120,000 flight hours logged, the M-346 has proven itself as the premier training system for fighter pilots. Its advanced training capabilities, provided by the International Flight Training School in collaboration with the Italian Air Force, address emerging needs for cost-effective combat operations.

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