Italian Alenia Aermacchi has selected Williams International FJ44-4M jet engine to power its new M-345 HET (High Efficiency Trainer) trai...
The 3400 lbs thrust FJ44-4M is an aerobatic version of FJ44-4A engine which is used in light business jets. It is a modern two–spool co–rotating turbofan engine with medium bypass ratio, mixed exhaust, and high cycle pressure ratio.
First flight is scheduled for 2015,with entry into service with Italian Air Force at the end of 2017.
The M-345 HET will feature enhanced performance, design load factors of +7/-3.5 g with high fatigue life, reduced fuel consumption and maintenance, state-of-the-art digital avionics and embedded training simulation capability, HUD (Head Up Display) in the front cockpit, a HUD repeater in the rear cockpit, three Multi-Function Displays in each cockpits, HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick) controls and considerable light attack capabilities.
The new trainer is expected to replace Italian Air Force MB.339A fleet and will also re-equip its famous “Frecce Tricolori” aerobatic team.
