Austria has officially finalized the Government-to-Government (G2G) agreement with Italy for the acquisition of 12 Leonardo M-346 aircraft in the Fighter Attack (FA) version. The decision, already anticipated at the end of 2024 through a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed in Vienna on December 30 and in Rome on December 31, 2024, now materializes in an intergovernmental agreement that represents a significant success for the Italian aerospace industry.
Details of the agreement
The preliminary document signed by the Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness (DAAA) of the Italian General Secretariat of Defense confirms that Austria will initially purchase 12 M-346FA aircraft, with an option for an additional 12 aircraft in two batches of six. The supply includes:
- A complete training system with Full Mission Simulator (FMS) and Unit Level Training Device (ULTD)
- 8 sets of equipment for the Fighter Attack configuration
- 12 Helmet Mounted Devices (HMD)
- Computer-Based Training (CBT) and simulation systems
- Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) capability with real-time monitoring station
- Mission planning and debriefing systems
- Link 16 and IRIS-T missile integration
- Armaments including Nexter 20mm gun pods, LAU32 rocket launchers, and SPEAR AECM pods
- Comprehensive training package and logistical services
The acquisition is regulated by Article 537-ter of Legislative Decree 66/2010, which governs cooperation with other states for armament materials produced by the national industry. The Italian Ministry of Defense will act as an intermediary, entering into a contract with Leonardo S.p.a. Aircraft Division on behalf of Austria, which will fully cover the costs of the operation.
A long-standing strategic collaboration
The agreement is part of a strategic military collaboration framework between Italy and Austria initiated with the “Memorandum on Military Co-operation” of October 19, 2001. This cooperation has already materialized in 2020 with a technical agreement in the field of military helicopters, and now extends to advanced training aircraft with attack capabilities.
The program could further expand in the future, as envisaged by the Implementing Arrangement signed on February 21, 2025, which contemplates “the further development of the M-346 weapon system, related weapon systems, support and training, also through the use of new technologies and artificial intelligence.”
The M-346FA: advanced training and operational capabilities
The M-346FA represents the combat evolution of the already established M-346 advanced trainer. This “Fighter Attack” version maintains all the training capabilities of the original, adding significant operational capabilities that make it an effective multi-mission platform.
The aircraft can be used both as an advanced trainer and as a light fighter for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, thanks to seven hardpoints for a payload of up to 3,000 kg. The FA version is equipped with a multimode radar, self-protection system, and integration capability with precision weapons.
The characteristics of low operating costs compared to front-line fighters, combined with versatility of use, make the M-346FA particularly suitable for the needs of nations like Austria, which seeks to modernize its air fleet with economically sustainable yet technologically advanced platforms.
A success for Italian industry
This agreement represents an important commercial success for Leonardo and for the Italian aerospace industry as a whole. The M-346 confirms its position as one of the best advanced trainers in the world, capable of attracting the interest of numerous military air forces.
After sales to Italy, Israel, Singapore, Poland, Qatar, Turkmenistan, and Nigeria, Austria’s entry into the club of M-346 users further strengthens the international prestige of this Made in Italy aircraft.
The Austrian decision confirms the value of the Italian solution not only for advanced training of military pilots but also as a light tactical platform with real operational capabilities, paving the way for potential new contracts in a global market increasingly oriented towards flexible and cost-effective solutions.
As an Austrian I highly appreciate this decision. Great!