Image by Leonardo
By Open Chronicle Staff with Agencies
In a major boost to European defense cooperation, the aerospace giant Leonardo has signed a contract with Italy’s Directorate for Air Armaments and Airworthiness to supply 12 M-346 multirole aircraft to the Austrian Air Force (Luftstreitkräfte). This agreement is designed to meet Austria’s requirements for airspace defense, national territory protection, and the advanced training of its military pilots.
The contract specifies that the aircraft will be delivered in a light fighter configuration under the new M-346 F Block 20 standard. These advanced jets will feature cutting-edge technology, including:
- Large Area Displays (LAD): Modernized cockpit interfaces for enhanced pilot situational awareness.
- AESA Radar: Active Electronically Scanned Array radar for superior tracking and engagement.
- Link 16 Data Link: Secure, high-speed communication systems for interoperability with allied forces.
- Electronic Countermeasures: Advanced defensive suites to protect the aircraft in hostile environments.
Beyond the airframes, the deal includes a comprehensive suite of simulation systems, an initial stock of spare parts, ground equipment, and six years of logistical and maintenance support starting from the delivery of the first unit.
🔴#LDO_PR #Leonardo has signed a contract with the Italian Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness for the supply of 12 #M346 multirole aircraft to the #AustrianAirForce (#Luftstreitkräfte), responding to the defence needs of Austria’s national airspace and… pic.twitter.com/yUoNX8X2ne
— Leonardo Aeronautics (@LDO_Aeronautics) December 17, 2025
This acquisition follows a series of defense collaborations between Vienna and Rome. In 2022 and 2023, Austria signed contracts for 36 AW169M LUH helicopters from Leonardo. Furthermore, the Austrian Ministry of Defense already trusts the International Flight Training School (IFTS) in Decimomannu, Italy, for the formation of its fighter pilots, where the M-346 serves as the backbone of the curriculum.
“This program confirms the international competitiveness of the M-346 system,” stated Stefano Bortoli, Managing Director of Leonardo’s Aircraft Division. “It meets the need for operational versatility imposed by current scenarios, which demand responsiveness, adaptability, and efficient management of new defense assets.”
In Austria, the M-346 F Block 20 will replace the Saab 105, which was retired in 2020. The M-346 will fulfill a dual role:
- Low-intensity Fighter Operations: Capable of air-to-air and air-to-surface missions.
- Advanced Trainer: Providing a seamless transition for pilots destined for high-performance jets like the Eurofighter or F-35.
The platform utilizes a Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training logic, combining real flights with simulated scenarios to provide the most realistic training environment possible.
With over 150,000 flight hours and nearly 160 aircraft sold to date, the M-346 has established itself as a global leader in advanced pilot training. To date, 20 countries have chosen the M-346 for training or light combat roles. Notably, the Italian Air Force recently selected the M-346 as the future aircraft for the Frecce Tricolori, Italy’s national aerobatic team.