Leonardo is preparing to make a strong entry into the Latin American market by presenting the M-346 as a valid solution to replace Brazil’s outdated AMX and A-4 aircraft, with 30 new aircraft on the table.
Brazil is currently evaluating to acquire Leonardo’s M-346 Fighter Attack (FA) to modernize the Air Force and Navy fleets. This initiative aims to not only replace aging aircraft but also to bolster Brazil’s defense capabilities. The M-346 FA configuration, with its advanced combat capabilities, presents an ideal solution for Brazil’s evolving defense requirements, aligning with the nation’s goal of maintaining a robust military posture.
The potential acquisition of at least 30 M-346 FA jets would enable Brazil to phase out older, maintenance-intensive aircraft, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing maintenance costs significantly. Given the rising expenses associated with legacy systems, this transition is both timely and necessary. The M-346’s compatibility with modern weapons systems, coupled with its advanced avionics and relatively low operational costs, aligns well with Brazil’s current defense objectives, making it a sustainable choice for the military’s future.
Brazilian media are reporting that the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, and the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, will discuss the possible agreement for the sale in November during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. According to the reports, the Air Force would receive 24 aircraft to replace the remaining A-1s, better known as the AMXs, and the Navy would receive the remaining six to replace the AF-1s, as the A-4s are designated by the service.
A pivotal moment in this evaluation process occurred in 2022, when the commander of the Brazilian Air Force visited Leonardo’s factory in Italy. This visit was instrumental, allowing Brazilian officials to observe the M-346’s capabilities firsthand. During this engagement, the commander had the opportunity to fly an M-346 at the International Flight Training School, which was at that time based in Lecce, gaining valuable insights into the aircraft’s operational and training advantages, particularly within a premier training environment.
Hoje, tive a oportunidade de conhecer o sistema de treinamento para Pilotos de Caça, na Base Aérea de Lecce, tendo voado a aeronave M346 com a Cel Frederica.
Oportunidade de aperfeiçoamento dos pilotos brasileiros e de estreitarmos, ainda mais, as relações com a Itália. pic.twitter.com/w3QDXhJi8V
— Baptista Jr (@CBaptistaJr) April 28, 2022
The Italian and Brazilian industries share a history of collaboration, notably in projects like the development of the AMX and the licensing of the MB-326 production to Embraer. For Leonardo, winning a new contract with Brazil would mark a strategic entry into the Latin American defense market. As Brazil pursues military modernization, this agreement could open doors to further regional partnerships such as Uruguay.
The Current Brazilian Fleet and Potential Upgrades
The Brazilian Armed Forces are undergoing a significant transformation as part of a comprehensive modernization program aimed at enhancing operational capabilities across various branches, particularly the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and the Brazilian Navy (MB). This initiative is not merely a response to emerging security challenges; it represents a strategic commitment to ensuring that Brazil remains effective and competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Central to this modernization effort is the ongoing upgrade of the current fleet, characterized by the phased retirement of older aircraft such as the AMX and the A-4 Skyhawk. While these aircraft have served their purpose admirably, they now struggle with rising maintenance costs and operational limitations, prompting Brazil to seek more advanced platforms that can deliver enhanced performance. In their place, Brazil is investing in cutting-edge technologies, including the acquisition of the Swedish Saab Gripen E, known as F-39 in Brazil, which promises to significantly boost the country’s combat capabilities.
More from The Aviationist
The Base Platform: M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer
The M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) by Leonardo serves as the foundational platform for the Fighter Attack variant. This twin-engine, tandem-seat aircraft is meticulously designed to prepare pilots for advanced combat roles. It is powered by two Honeywell F-124-GA-200 engines, providing remarkable agility and high performance essential for both training and operational missions.
One of the standout features of the M-346 is its sophisticated cockpit, which includes a Heads-Up Display (HUD), Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) controls, and a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD). These advanced avionics systems project critical tactical information directly in the pilot’s line of sight, creating a realistic training experience that closely mirrors the systems found in contemporary 4th and 5th generation fighter aircraft. This feature is particularly important for developing the situational awareness required in modern aerial combat scenarios.
The M-346’s design emphasizes a high-fidelity simulation environment, which is crucial for training pilots to operate effectively in high-pressure situations. The aircraft’s fly-by-wire system enhances its handling characteristics, enabling it to perform complex maneuvers with ease. This agility is vital for preparing student pilots for the rigors of combat aviation, ensuring they can adapt quickly to the demands of real-world scenarios.
The M-346 FA Variant
The M-346FA (Fighter Attack) variant belongs to Leonardo’s M-346 Light Fighter Family Aircraft (LFFA) program. The M-346 FA takes the base model to new levels by incorporating the Grifo-M-346 multi-mode radar, transforming it into a multirole light fighter with enhanced combat functionality. This advanced radar system supports sophisticated targeting for air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, making the M-346FA effective in various mission profiles, including close air support, reconnaissance, and patrol missions. The radar and sensor systems provide high-resolution targeting and situational awareness, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s utility across diverse tactical environments.
Retaining the M-346 AJT’s Embedded Tactical Training Simulation (ETTS) suite, the M-346FA offers comprehensive training capabilities, serving as both an Advanced Jet Trainer/Lead-In Fighter Trainer (LIFT) and flight fighter. This dual functionality facilitates complex in-flight simulations for weapons deployment, radar use, and electronic warfare training, preparing pilots for a spectrum of combat scenarios. Furthermore, the integration of Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) capabilities allows the M-346FA to operate seamlessly in mixed training environments, where real and virtual participants enhance pilot preparation.
The aircraft’s advanced avionics keep critical tactical information readily available in the pilot’s view, ensuring quick and accurate decision-making in dynamic combat situations. The M-346FA is designed to carry a variety of weaponry, including precision-guided munitions, air-to-air missiles, a gun pod, and air-to-ground bombs, maximizing its versatility in combat roles. An air-to-air refueling capability further extends its operational range, allowing it to engage in prolonged missions.
In addition to its combat role, the M-346FA’s capabilities for Aggressor and Companion Training broaden its operational scope. These features enable air forces to conduct realistic threat simulations and prepare pilots against a variety of adversarial tactics, thereby enhancing readiness for real-world engagements. As a cost-effective and adaptable platform, the M-346FA is an ideal solution for air forces needing both an advanced training aircraft and a combat-ready light fighter, all while keeping operational costs low
Global Interest and Current Customers
The M-346FA is currently in service with the Turkmenistan Air Force, where it is utilized for advanced training and light attack missions. Its performance has garnered attention from several other nations, including Nigeria, which is preparing for the rollout of the first aircraft in the upcoming months. The M-346FA is an attractive option for countries looking to modernize their air forces and improve their readiness for various military operations, offering a cost-effective solution that meets contemporary defense challenges.
