Leonardo has unveiled the twin seat M-346FA (Fighter Attack) multi-role fighter jet at the Paris Air Show 2017. The M-346FA is a low ...
Leonardo has unveiled the twin seat M-346FA (Fighter Attack) multi-role fighter jet at the Paris Air Show
2017.
The M-346FA is a low cost true multi-role lightweight fighter derived from the M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer and the dual role M-346FT (Fighter Trainer) suitable for performing Close Air Support (CAS)/ Counter Insurgency (COIN) and tactical reconnaissance missions.
It is equipped with the multi-mode Grifo M346 radar, produced by the Leonardo's Airborne and Space Systems Division and specifically optimized for the FA variant.
The four channel fly-by-wire system flight control system provides redundancy and have envelope protection for care free handling.
The M-346FA is equipped with 7 external hard-points including two wingtip rails and single under fuselage stations, capable of carrying a 2,650 kg payload.
It can employ an extensive variety of air-to-air and air-ground weapons (laser/GPS guided and non-guided) and several external loads including gun, reconnaissance or target designation pod.
It is possible to integrate a Tactical Data Link, self-protection system Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS) that include Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS), Chaff & Flare Dispenser.
A Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) system, Voice Command, an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system, a Secure Communications system, an electronic warfare pod and a radar cross section reduction kit has been qualified.
With a maximum take off weight of 22,930 lb (10.400 Kg), FA can achieve a top level speed of 590 KTAS, and reach a maximum altitude of 45,000 ft.
The 2 hour 40 minute endurance can be extended to 3 hour 50 minute by carry three external fuel tanks of 630 liter each.
External stores include GBU-12/16 (500/1000 lb) Paveway II LGB, Lizard 2 LGB (500 lb), GBU-38 (500 lb) JDAM, GBU-32 (1000 lb) JDAM, GBU-49 (500 lb) Enhanced Paveway II GPS/LGB, Lizard 4 GPS/LGB (500 lb), Small Diameter Bomb (SDB), MK.82HD Snakeye (500 lb) general-purpose bomb, MK.83 (1000 lb) general-purpose bomb.
Rocket Launchers, Gun pod, Air-to-Air Missiles (Iris-T and AIM-9L), Up to 3 External Fuel tanks, Recce pod and a Target Designator Pod can also integrated.
