Istrana Air Base, Italy – In a landmark transition that underscores a new era for Italy’s elite aerobatic team, the Italian Air Force Frecce has officially unveiled the state-of-the-art M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer for the Frecce Tricolori. This move marks a significant upgrade after more than four decades of service by the MB-339PAN, reversing an earlier decision to equip the squadron with the M-345 High-Efficiency Trainer.

The Italian Air Force officially announced today that the M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer, designated T-346A in Italy, will replace the ageing MB-339PAN jets. Initially, the M-345 was slated to take over the role, but it was ultimately deemed unsuitable for the intricate large formation aerobatics that define the breathtaking performances of the Frecce Tricolori team. Instead, the M-346, with its significantly superior thrust capability and exceptional manoeuvrability, will ensure that the team can continue to deliver their awe-inspiring and captivating aerial displays to enthusiastic audiences around the world.

A New Chapter for Frecce Tricolori

The new aircraft, adorned with the team’s iconic livery, was unveiled at a ceremony at Istrana Air Base in northeastern Italy. The event was graced by the presence of Italy’s Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto and Italian Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Luca Goretti. This ceremony also marked the Frecce Tricolori’s return from their extensive North America Tour 2024. Despite the challenges posed by the ageing MB-339s, the team successfully completed a rigorous schedule, performing in nine airshows and 17 flyovers across the U.S. and Canada from June 10 to September 5, 2024.

The MB-339: A Storied Legacy

The MB-339, an Italian military jet trainer and light attack aircraft, has been the backbone of the Frecce Tricolori since its introduction in the early 1980s. Known for its reliability and agility, the MB-339 has been instrumental in numerous breathtaking aerobatic displays, earning the admiration of aviation enthusiasts worldwide. However, as technological advancements in aviation have accelerated, the need for a more advanced platform became apparent.

The M-345: A Stepping Stone

Initially, the M-345 High Efficiency Trainer was slated to replace the MB-339. The M-345, also developed by Leonardo SpA, offers modern avionics and improved efficiency, making it an excellent choice for basic and advanced pilot training. However, it was ultimately deemed unsuitable for the demanding large formation aerobatics performed by the Frecce Tricolori, leading to the selection of the M-346.

The M-346: A New Standard

The M-346, also developed by Leonardo SpA, is a twin-engine transonic trainer aircraft designed for advanced pilot training. It boasts superior thrust, agility, and state-of-the-art avionics, making it a perfect fit for the Frecce Tricolori’s high-precision manoeuvres. The aircraft is already in use for the advanced training of pilots destined for 4th and 5th generation aerotactic lines, underscoring its capabilities and reliability.

A Symbol of Italian Excellence

The livery of the new M-346, designed by the renowned Italian firm Pininfarina, enhances the aircraft’s sleek lines and dynamic presence, embodying the elegance and power synonymous with both Pininfarina and the Frecce Tricolori. In a statement, the Italian Air Force highlighted the significance of the new aircraft: “Introducing the new aircraft that will replace the MB-339PAN, dedicated to the Frecce Tricolori. This is the aircraft designed and manufactured in Italy by Leonardo SpA, already in use for the advanced training of pilots destined for the 4th and 5th generation aerotactic lines. The M-346 will allow the Tricolor Arrows to continue representing Italy on the global stage.”

The statement continued, “The new livery, designed by Pininfarina, develops the theme of the ‘tricolour revival,’ enhancing the beauty and fluidity of the Tricolor Arrows’ flight. It celebrates team spirit, commitment, ingenuity, and national pride. The result is a harmonious design, visible in three dimensions, ensuring a recognizable graphic element during the aircraft’s manoeuvres, conveying a sense of speed and dynamism.”

Looking Ahead

The introduction of the M-346 represents a perfect blend of elegance and power, reflecting the core values of efficiency, ingenuity, and teamwork that define the Italian Air Force and its celebrated aerobatic team. As the Frecce Tricolori prepares to take to the skies with their new aircraft, aviation enthusiasts and patriots alike can look forward to even more spectacular displays of aerial prowess and national pride.