In today's world, there is now an abundance of very advanced fighter and multi-role aircraft. From the F-22 to the F-35 to even the Rafale, Su-35 and F-16IN. Aircraft like these with advanced electronics and great manoeuvrability require pilots to train in an aircraft that will ready them for 4th and 5th generation combat. The M-346, adequately named "Master", is one of the most ideal trainers for the role. While sharing the features of its sister aircraft, the Yakovlev Yak-130, it is equipped with electronics and equipment that even passes that of the Yak-130 in some areas. The M-346 will truly prove to be a master of the skies in the 21st century.
In a world where most aircraft flying around were built before the 2000's, the M-346 gains a significant advantage over these aircraft. It features swept wings, fully modernised cockpit, and can handle and react like only a fighter could. It was originally a project being carried out by both Aermacchi and Yakovlev. The goal was to develop an advanced trainer using Yakovlev's Yak-130 as a basis. About mid-way through the project, Aermacchi pulled the plug and went solo on the project. Since the project, which would become the M-346, was developed right after the development of the Yak-130, it bears a remarkable visual resemblance. The key differences between the M-346 and the Yak-130 are the "hardware" (Weaponry) and the upgraded equipment.
The cockpit of the "Master" is made of reinforced glass. The glass is supported by two metal beams which reach along the width of the glass. Although this slightly restricts vision, it does not restrict it enough to become a disadvantage. Since the cockpit is meant for two people, it is fairly long. The pilot trainer will sit in tandem (One behind the other) with the pupil.
The pilots will receive helmets with mounted sights. The cockpit itself also has an HUD, to minimize pilot reaction delay. Although a HUD was optional at one time, with all the new technology present today, every extra second you spend trying to react to a situation could mean your life.
Aermacchi's tactic towards making this trainer successful is to make the aircraft as modern as possible and as cost-effective as possible. With other successful trainer aircraft like the BAE Hawk growing old and popular trainers like T-37 Tweets obsolete, the M-346 will undoubtedly become the most popular trainer of at least the next ten decades if it can equip air forces lacking a modern trainer. Aermacchi's web site officially stated that "The M-346 is the most advanced lead-in fighter trainer today."
In order to make the M-346 cost-effective yet simulate combat perfectly, many combat simulators have been located on board. Therefore, without the financial hassle of having the actual advanced electronics onboard, the M-346 can still allow one to practise with virtual versions of the real electronics systems, preparing a pilot to use them.
The M-346 has been fitted with an in flight refuelling system, so that it can be fuelled by airtankers such as KC-10's. Like many trainers, it can also be fitted out as a light fighter aircraft or a low cost ground attack aircraft. It carries nine hard points, which is admirable for such a small aircraft, and a variety of air-to-air and air-to-surface munitions can be equipped.
Italy was the first country to order the M-346. Italian pilots will use it mainly to train for Typhoons. Below is a list of the most widely used and popular trainers in the world today.
- T-45 Goshawk: Upgraded version of the BAE hawk. Used as an advanced fighter trainer by the USAF.
- BAE Hawk: One of the worlds most successful trainers. Used by India, Britain, Canada, and various other countries. Is approaching it's 40th year of service.
- Dornier Alfa Jet: Jet trainer used by many European countries. Although old, it is a decent basic trainer.
- Northrop T-38 Talon: Trainer version of the F-5. Exported to many allies of the United Sates, but is growing slowly obsolete.
- K-50 Golden Eagle: Very recent jet trainer. It has a very aerodynamic and advanced design, and was made by a south Korean company with the assistance of America's Lockheed Martin.
Written by: Pace51