Austria Finalizes Purchase of 12 M-346F Block 20 Jets and Modernizes Its Military Aviation

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Austria finalizes purchase of 12 M-346F Block 20 jets and modernizes its military aviation

Austria finalizes purchase of 12 M-346F Block 20 jets and modernizes its military aviation (X @LDO_Aeronautics)

Leonardo has confirmed that the Austrian Air Force will receive 12 M-346F Block 20 jets, the latest version of the Italian manufacturer’s light fighter and advanced trainer aircraft.

The contract, signed with the Italian Directorate of Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness, solidifies Austria’s choice of a multirole aircraft capable of both training and operational roles, complementing the Eurofighter fleet.

The package includes complete simulation systems, spare parts, ground equipment, and six years of logistical and maintenance support. According to the Austrian Ministry of Defense, each aircraft costs approximately $93.6 million, while the full program, including armaments, simulators, training, and maintenance, reaches roughly $1.7 billion. Beyond operational gains, the deal is expected to generate a positive economic impact, with a parallel industrial contract estimated at $468 million for Austrian companies.

The Block 20 configuration brings a deep modernization of the M-346, featuring a new digital cockpit, large-area displays, augmented reality HMD, and, in the case of the M-346F, an AESA radar and advanced weapons integration. With the capacity to carry over 2,000 kg of weapons and perform multiple mission profiles, the M-346F Block 20 strengthens the program’s international competitiveness and enhances Austria’s operational flexibility.

Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @LDO_Aeronautics | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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