Leonardo M-346F Block 20

History

The Leonardo M-346F Block 20 is an Italian multirole light fighter and advanced jet trainer under development as an upgraded member of the M-346 family. It combines flight training functions with equipment for air-to-air and air-to-surface missions.

Block 20 introduces a redesigned cockpit, an active electronically scanned array radar, Link 16 connectivity, improved electronic warfare equipment, and new weapon integration. The aircraft is intended to operate with Leonardo's ground-based and networked training systems.

Austria became the launch customer for the M-346F Block 20, followed by Indonesia. The first Block 20 aircraft is scheduled to fly in 2027, so the variant should not yet be considered operational.

Development

Leonardo launched the Block 20 development program at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024. The project covers the M-346T Block 20 trainer and the combat-capable M-346F Block 20. A preliminary design review was completed in 2024.

On 31 March 2025, Leonardo displayed a prototype Block 20 cockpit at the Military Flight Training conference in Sardinia. Its configurable 20-by-8-inch Large Area Display can reproduce several multifunction-display layouts. The company described the human-machine interface as still under development. A critical design review was planned for the second half of 2025, while the first adapted Block 20 aircraft was scheduled to fly in mid-2027. Leonardo also stated that elements of the upgrade could be offered to existing M-346 users.

Austria

On 17 December 2025, Leonardo announced a contract for 12 M-346F Block 20 aircraft for the Austrian Air Force. The package includes simulators, training for pilots and maintenance personnel, spare parts, ground equipment, and six years of logistical support after the first delivery. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028.

Austria plans to use the aircraft for advanced training and lower-intensity combat missions. They will replace the Saab 105 aircraft retired in 2020.

Indonesia

On 21 July 2026, Leonardo and PT ESystem Solutions Indonesia signed a contract with the Indonesian Ministry of Defence for 12 M-346F Block 20 aircraft. The agreement followed a letter of intent announced in February 2026. It includes localized support, maintenance, overhaul, personnel training, and development of Indonesian technical skills. Deliveries are expected to start in 2030.

The Indonesian aircraft are intended to replace Hawk Mk 109 trainers and Hawk Mk 209 light attack aircraft. They will also support the training stage between basic jet instruction and conversion to combat aircraft such as the F-16 and Rafale.

Design

Flight controls and powerplant

The M-346F Block 20 is a twin-engine aircraft powered by two Honeywell F124-GA-200 engines. Its four-channel digital fly-by-wire flight-control system supports controlled flight at angles of attack above 30 degrees. This allows pilots to practice demanding maneuvers during advanced training.

Cockpit and avionics

Both crew stations are planned to receive a Large Area Display and a low-profile head-up display. The configurable display can present up to four simulated multifunction displays, together with information bars. Planned Block 20 additions include an autothrottle, automatic ground-collision avoidance, performance-based navigation, and an open-system avionics architecture.

The combat version will carry an active electronically scanned array radar, a Link 16 tactical data link, and electronic countermeasures. Its planned self-protection system combines radar-warning receivers, missile-warning equipment, and chaff and flare dispensers. The available sources confirm an AESA radar but do not consistently establish a final radar model for every customer aircraft.

Training system

The aircraft forms part of an integrated training system that includes a Ground Based Training System. Its Live, Virtual and Constructive architecture combines real flights with simulated aircraft, threats, and mission scenarios. Leonardo plans to expand the Block 20 training environment through data analysis, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence.

Armament

The M-346F Block 20 retains seven external hardpoints and a planned maximum stores load of 3,000 kg. Leonardo intends to integrate new weapons and medium-range air-to-air missiles. The current M-346FA has already been cleared for AIM-9M Sidewinder and IRIS-T short-range missiles, but this does not by itself confirm the final weapon inventory of each Block 20 customer.

Program status

As of 2026, the M-346F Block 20 remains in development and has not entered operational service. Austria's first deliveries are planned for 2028. Indonesia is scheduled to receive aircraft from 2030. The contracts establish production customers, but future delivery dates and planned capabilities remain subject to program progress.

Variants

• M-346T Block 20: Advanced trainer configuration with the Block 20 cockpit and avionics improvements.
• M-346F Block 20: Light multirole fighter and advanced trainer with an AESA radar, Link 16, electronic warfare systems, and expanded weapon integration.

Customers

• Austria: Twelve M-346F Block 20 aircraft ordered for advanced training and lower-intensity combat duties. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028.
• Indonesia: Twelve M-346F Block 20 aircraft ordered for advanced training and multirole combat duties. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2030.

Specifications (M-346F Block 20)

General characteristics

• Powerplant: Two Honeywell F124-GA-200 engines
• Flight-control system: Four-channel digital fly-by-wire
• External hardpoints: Seven
• Maximum external stores load: 3,000 kg (6,610 lb)

Performance

• Maximum speed: Approximately 1,065 km/h at low altitude
• Service ceiling: 13,715 m (45,000 ft)
• Range with three external fuel tanks: Approximately 2,220 km (1,380 mi)
• Controllable angle of attack: More than 30 degrees

Mission systems

• Radar: Active electronically scanned array radar
• Data link: Link 16
• Cockpit display: 20-by-8-inch Large Area Display at both crew stations
• Electronic warfare: Electronic countermeasures and a planned self-protection suite
• Training integration: Ground Based Training System with Live, Virtual and Constructive networking
• Aerial refuelling: Capability included in the planned configuration