Austria and Italy Finalize G2G Deal for Leonardo M-346FA Jets
Earlier this month Italy announced that it would supply twelve Leonardo M-346FA aircraft to the Austrian Air Force under a Government-to-Government deal. On 5 May, Italy’s Ministry of Defense issued a formal “Determinazione a Contrarre” (DaC) to finalize the contract, which was signed by Italy’s Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness Directorate (D.A.A.A.) on behalf of Austria’s defense ministry. The M-346FA is a two-seat light fighter version of Leonardo’s widely used M-346 advanced jet trainer. These additional M346FAs will supplement the Austrian Air Force’s 15 Tranche 1 Eurofighter Typhoons.
Under this agreement, Austria will acquire twelve M-346FAs, with an option to buy twelve more. The purchase is part of Austria’s multi-year defense recapitalization plan and is fully funded by the Austrian government. The contract also includes simulators, training devices, and support equipment. The package is worth roughly €1 billion, with deliveries of the first jets scheduled to begin in 2027. The M-346FA retains the trainer’s original dual role while adding full combat capability. Leonardo describes it as a “light combat” aircraft capable of performing close air support, air interdiction, and reconnaissance missions. In practice, the twin-seat jet has seven external hardpoints and can carry a variety of weapons such as air-to-air missiles, rockets, and bombs. For instance, official images show the FA loaded with IRIS-T and Derby short-range air-to-air missiles. It also employs helmet-mounted displays (HMD) so pilots can cue targeting sensors and weapons, enhancing combat effectiveness.
The aircraft measures 11.5 meters in length, has a wingspan of 9.7 meters, and features a modern glass cockpit compatible with night-vision goggles and helmet-mounted displays. The M-346FA can reach speeds of Mach 1.2 and reach altitudes over 45,000 feet. It is equipped with Leonardo’s Grifo-M multi-mode radar and defensive aids subsystem (DASS) for self-protection. The integrated communications suite and tactical datalink ensure interoperability with NATO forces. Onboard, an Embedded Tactical Training System (ETTS) allows pilots to practice realistic combat scenarios during flight, working in conjunction with ground simulators and live-virtual-constructive training systems. The jet also supports in-flight refueling, which extends its range and endurance for long missions.
Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner praised the deal, saying “the new jets will fill a major gap in defense capabilities and allow all pilot training to take place within Austria, boosting national air security”. In practical terms, the M-346FA purchase restores Austria’s advanced jet-training capability and adds a versatile light-fighter asset to the fleet. The Government-to-Government contract emphasizes Italy’s role in procuring the aircraft from Leonardo on Austria’s behalf, while reflecting growing defense cooperation between the two countries.