Leonardo contracted to deliver M-346 light combat and trainer aircraft for Austria

Austria is buying 12 Leonardo M-346F Block 20 jets (pictured with the designation Photoshopped onto the aircraft tail) to replace its retired Saab 105s. (Leonardo)

Leonardo has signed with the Italian government for the delivery of its M-346F (Fighter) Block 20 light strike combat and advanced trainer aircraft to Austria.

Leonardo announced the contract with the Italian Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness on 17 December, weeks after the Austrian Ministry of Defence confirmed the purchase on 29 November.

“In Austria, the M-346F Block 20 will replace the Saab 105, retired from service in 2020, in the dual role of fighter for lower-intensity operations and advanced trainer,” Leonardo said. The deal includes the option of a further 12 aircraft.

As previously disclosed, of the initial 12 aircraft to be contracted eight will receive role equipment for the light combat mission with the remaining four serving as trainers. It is unclear if this split will carry over for the optional aircraft. The light combat jets will be armed with a 20 mm cannon, 70 mm guided and unguided rockets, short-range weapons, and possibly a long-range radar-guided missile (it is unclear if this is for air-to-surface or air-to-air missiles).

For the training role, the M-346F Block 20 features an integrated advanced flight training system, including a ground-based training system (GBTS), combined simulated elements and scenarios with real flights according to a live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) logic.

For both light combat and training, the aircraft is equipped with an in-flight refuelling probe.

Deliveries are due to commence from 2027. Once in service, the M-346FAs (Fighter Attack) will be based alongside the Austrian Air Force's Eurofighters at Zeltweg Air Base for the first one-and-a-half years to help bed down the capability.