Alenia Aeronautica, The M-346 new generation lead-in fighter trainer arrived in Singapore yesterday afternoon to participate in the annual air show, where it will spearhead the Alenia Aeronautica group presence in the leading aerospace and defence show for the entire South-East Asia region.
After obtaining the required display authorization, the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 will begin to make frequent demonstration flights with prospective customers in the region in preparation for the show opening on Tuesday, 19 February.
The M-346 trainer is a leading contender for Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Fighter Wings Course (FWC) competition, aimed at replacing the TA-4SU Skyhawk fleet currently operated from a base in France. In addition, several countries have already shown an interest in the Alenia Aeronautica C-27J tactical transport aircraft, and the ATR family of regional turboprops has the opportunity to further expand its presence in both the commercial and special mission markets.
Chief Test Pilot Olinto Cecconello and Test Pilot Quirino Bucci flew the second prototype M-346 from Italy with minimal technical support, covering the 6,500 nm route in four days with a smooth and uneventful flight that provides further confirmation of the reliability and maturity of the programme. The aircraft was fitted with two 580 litre under wing tanks.
The flight to Singapore marks the longest deployment so far for the M-346, with a total of about 28 flying hours for the combined round trip.
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