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Brazilian Air Force and Navy Assess Acquisition of Italian M-346 Leonardo Fighters to Replace Old Models and Modernize the Country’s Air Defense.
Brazil may be about to take a crucial strategic step in its military defense with the possible acquisition of the Leonardo M-346 fighters, manufactured in Italy. These state-of-the-art jets have been designed for both advanced training and light attack missions, combining high technology with operational efficiency. The purchase of these fighters represents a potential game-changer for the Brazilian Air Force and even the Navy, contributing to the strengthening of national security and expanding the country’s defense capabilities. Additionally, the choice of the M-346 reinforces the diplomatic and technological ties between Brazil and Italy, opening doors for future strategic collaborations in the military sector.
Italian Fighters Aim to Replace AMX and Skyhawk
The negotiation for the purchase of M-346 fighters for the Brazilian Air Force and Navy rekindles the historic partnership between the countries, marked by successes such as the AT-26 Xavante and the AMX, strengthening the pursuit of innovation and military power in the global landscape.
With high speed, weapon capacity, and cutting-edge technologies, the Italian fighters emerge as the ideal replacement for outdated models such as the AMX and the Skyhawk. Furthermore, the arrival of this model could usher in a new era for the Brazilian Air Force and Navy.
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The M-346 fighters originated from a collaboration between Alenia Aermacchi of Italy and Yakovlev of Russia. Although the partnership was dissolved, the project resulted in two distinct models, solidifying the aircraft as one of the leading training and light attack aircraft on the market.
This connection to Italy dates back to the AT-26 Xavante, produced in Brazil under license by Embraer, and the AMX fighter, developed through the AMX International consortium, uniting efforts between Embraer and Alenia Aermacchi.
Italian Fighters Reach 1,090 km/h (Mach 0.95)
The M-346 fighters are powered by two Honeywell/ITEC F124 engines, achieving a maximum speed of 1,090 km/h. With the capacity to carry up to 3 tons of armaments on seven strategic points on their wings and fuselage, the future aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force and Navy offers flexibility for a variety of missions.
The ability to operate both smart bombs and air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles enhances its appeal as the ideal substitute for the AMX, which is nearing retirement.
In 2022, the then-commander of the Air Force, Brigadier Carlos Baptista Júnior, conducted a demonstration flight with the aircraft, indicating initial interest from FAB in the model. This interest was reinforced this year during the Farnborough International Air Show in London, where Defense Minister José Múcio was seen evaluating the jet.
Leonardo formalized its offer to Brazil, highlighting the feasibility of the Italian fighters as replacements for the AMX and, potentially, for the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk of the Navy.
How Many Models Will Be Purchased for the Brazilian Air Force and Navy?
Leonardo’s proposal includes the sale of 24 units to the Brazilian Air Force and 6 to the Navy. However, there is a notable point, the Italian fighters are not designed to operate on aircraft carriers. Despite this, the Navy seems willing to consider the model, as it has no immediate plans to purchase vessels capable of operating fighters of this size.
The flexibility of the M-346 fighters, especially in air strikes using Marte anti-ship missiles, makes it a valuable addition to naval defensive capabilities.
While the Brazilian Air Force and Navy assess their purchase, the Leonardo M-346 is also being evaluated by the U.S. Navy as a potential replacement for the McDonnell T-45 Goshawk.
This modified version for carrier operations, if approved, will only be available after 2028, demonstrating the model’s continued importance in the global military landscape. For Brazil, the M-346 offers clear advantages as a greater defense against anti-ship missiles.
Péssimo. Hurjet da Turquia é MUITO mais moderno (Espanha, Indonésia, Polônia já compraram) e ainda sai mais barato!!
Não vejo a necessidade de se adquirir aeronaves subsônicas, tendo em vista um país com grandes dimensões para se patrulhar. O AMX não foi um sucesso tão grande assim. O Xavante foi um grande treinador, sim!
Isso aí é caça de treinamento!
Deveria adquirir o Tejas ou JF-17/FC que são melhores e com ótimo custo benefício.