Leonardo Enhances M-346 Training System

Leonardo has launched a capability enhancement package for the M-346 integrated training system including the aircraft’s core avionics, navigation/identification, mission equipment and ground training capabilities. The move reflects the training needs to align pilot’s skills to the evolution dictated by modern multi-domain battlefields, combat air technology, and information management.

The company believes this latest development leverages the growth capability embedded into the M-346 design as well as 10 years of proven in-service experience with air forces across geographies and is an integral part of the broader organisational digitization roadmap initiative. According to the company, both training and fighter variants will benefit from these enhancements to deliver more capabilities to the market for a wide spectrum of applications, while implying margin for further developments in the future. The ‘M-346 T Block 20’ and ‘M-346 F Block 20’ are the designations for the new standard.

The new Block 20 standard will not be limited to the platform itself, but rather to the entire system including the ground based training system and shall be enabled by the widespread implementation of digitalization powered by AI.

The Block 20 standard cockpit will feature two large area displays, one per each seat, replacing the existing six multi-functional displays, plus a low-profile head-up display. These will be combined with a new digital video and data recorder and a new augmented reality (AR) helmet mounted display. The new cockpit will align the human- machine interface to those of the sophisticated and future frontline combat air systems, with advantages in terms of quality training (i.e. look & feel plus a high-fidelity immersive environment) and situational awareness in operational missions. The ‘M-346 Block 20’ will also benefit from new navigation, weapon management, flight management system, IFF - Identification of Friend or Foe - transponder.

Specifically for the M-346 F variant, further critical capability enhancements include an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar featuring fire control radar capability, integration of new weapons for both air-to-air and air- to-ground roles in addition to a built-in missile datalink.

The whole Ground Based Training System (GBTS) holistic approach to training (multi-media and classroom course, flight/mission simulation, virtual and live/constructive training) will step up to the new standard via virtual reality support and AI applications.

Moreover, stronger digitization will also result into a key enabler for more efficient technical support thanks to the implementation of the virtual maintenance and the “connected fleet”, a high-performing infrastructure, which uses Advanced Data Analytics and High Performance Computing to enhance the Integrated Logistic Support services.

Lorenzo Mariani, Co-General Manager of Leonardo, said: “As we are fully involved into next generation combat air developments, this latest progress of the M-346 testifies that we’re making sure the most appropriate training solutions are thoroughly embedded in this commitment.”