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The Brazilian Air Force is going through a critical moment. With the end of the useful life of old fighters and the delay in the delivery of the new F-39 Gripen, the solution may lie in the introduction of a historic aircraft: the new Xavante, or the promising M-346 Fighter Attack.
The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) faces a moment of decision that could redefine the future of combat aviation in the country.
As the fleet of aging fighters, such as the AMX A-1 and the F-5M, approaches the end of its useful life, the renewal promised by the F-39 Gripen is beginning to take shape, but not without difficulties.
What is really at stake is Brazilian air sovereignty and the training of new generations of combat pilots, a challenge that demands immediate action.
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Behind the scenes, there is growing discussion about the need for an intermediate solution to keep the FAB operational while the Gripen program is fully integrated.
Could the answer lie in a new aircraft model like the M-346 Fighter Attack? Experts believe so, but the final decision has not yet been made.
The progress of the F-39 Gripen program and its limitations
Despite initial delays, the fighter delivery program Gripen E/F for Brazil shows progress. Until September 2024, the FAB received nine units of the F-39E model, part of the total of 36 aircraft acquired in the first phase of the project.
These deliveries represent a milestone in the modernization of Brazilian fighter aircraft, but the initial schedule has undergone adjustments. Experts point out that the full operation of the Gripen will still depend on adaptations and ongoing technical support.
Meanwhile, the need for maintenance and low availability of the AMX A-1 and F-5M create a significant gap in the FAB's operational capacity.
These fighters, which for decades were the backbone of Brazilian combat aviation, are no longer able to meet modern demands.
The M-346 Fighter Attack: A Viable Solution?
One of the most talked about possibilities to fill this gap is the adoption of the M-346 Fighter Attack, a Leonardo aircraft that combines cutting-edge technology with lower operating costs.
This advanced fighter is considered a spiritual successor to the iconic MB-326 Xavante, which played a crucial role in pilot training and Brazilian air sovereignty.
Although the M-346 is an attractive alternative, there is no official confirmation of negotiations between the FAB and Leonardo.
The choice of this aircraft will depend on factors such as budget, technical compatibility and political support.
According to analysts, the M-346 can meet demands for advanced training, armed reconnaissance and air defense while the Gripen program reaches operational maturity.
Challenges in attracting new fighter pilots
Another critical aspect is the FAB's difficulty in attracting new pilots to combat aviation. The career has lost some of its attractiveness due to operational limitations and the shortage of available aircraft.
Many students at the Academy of Air Force prefer areas such as transport aviation or rotary wings, which offer longer flight times in modern aircraft and international missions.
Experts point out that the arrival of the F-39 Gripen could reverse this scenario, restoring confidence in the future of fighter aviation in Brazil. However, the transition requires a clear strategy to avoid a lasting impact on pilot training.
What is at stake for the FAB?
The current crisis goes beyond a simple fleet renewal. Fighter aviation is essential to guarantee aerial sovereignty and national security.
Without an effective solution, Brazil runs the risk of losing strategic relevance in the South American scenario, leaving room for other countries to assume prominent positions in the region.
While the introduction of the Gripen is promising, the FAB needs viable alternatives for the short term. The M-346 Fighter Attack and other similar models could play a crucial role in this transition period.
The situation of the Brazilian Air Force is complex, but not insoluble. With strategic planning and well-directed investments, Brazil can strengthen its fighter aircraft and ensure its aerial sovereignty. The question remains: will the government prioritize national defense at such a critical time?
Do you think Brazil should invest in temporary solutions, such as the M-346, or speed up the delivery of the Gripen?
Yes
Why don't you buy the Su 75 from Russia since we have a problem.
I believe that Brazil needs to invest in projects with strategic and operational solutions backed by planned and sustainable financing. Projects that have a beginning, middle and end, that meet schedules and do not suffer from the uncertainties arising from budget cuts and populist policies.
As for the SU-75s, well, if we have neither money nor a capable industry, how can we buy these aircraft.
In short, the beginning of everything is money.