Istrana, Italy (September 12, 2024) – In a historic event for the Italian Air Force, the legendary Frecce Tricolori unveiled their new aircraft, the M346 “Master”, today. This advanced training aircraft, designed and manufactured in Italy by Leonardo, will mark a new era for one of the world’s most admired aerobatic teams.
The presentation of the M346 in the squadron’s colors was the centerpiece of the Frecce Tricolori’s homecoming ceremony from the North America Tour. The event was attended by the Italian Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, and other high-ranking officials of the Italian Air Force.
“Oggi giornata storica per l’#AeronauticaMilitare: presentata la livrea dell’#M346, il futuro velivolo delle @FrecceTricolori. Questo aereo rappresenta l’eccellenza della tecnologia aerospaziale e del design italiani: un vero simbolo del #madeinItaly“. Così Min @GuidoCrosetto ad… pic.twitter.com/FxaRdxsWPQ
— Ministero Difesa (@MinisteroDifesa) September 12, 2024
“Today is a historic day for the Italian Air Force: the new livery of the M346, the future aircraft of the Frecce Tricolori, has been presented. This aircraft represents the excellence of Italian aerospace technology and design: a true symbol of ‘made in Italy’,” said Minister Guido Crosetto.
A technological leap
The M346, a state-of-the-art aircraft, will replace the veteran Aermacchi MB-339, marking a milestone in the evolution of the Frecce Tricolori. Its advanced capabilities will allow Italian pilots to perform even more complex and spectacular aerobatic maneuvers, raising the level of aerial displays to new heights.
In addition to its flight performance, the M346 stands out for its advanced avionics and its ability to simulate the behavior of fourth and fifth generation fighters, making it an invaluable training tool for future fighter pilots of the Italian Air Force and other international operators.
A livery that evokes
Along with the presentation of the new aircraft, the new livery designed by Pininfarina was unveiled. Inspired by the concept of the “rebirth of the tricolor”, this modern and elegant design highlights the beauty and fluidity of the Frecce Tricolori’s flight, conveying a sense of speed and dynamism that will captivate the public.
La Frecce Tricolori: An Italian ambassador flying into the future
Founded in 1961, the Frecce Tricolori has been for more than six decades an emblem of Italian excellence in the field of aeronautical engineering and an ambassador of the country in the world. This aerobatic patrol has captivated millions of spectators with its aerial displays, which combine precision, beauty and a deep love of aviation.
Throughout its history, the Frecce Tricolori have constantly evolved, from the first F-86 Sabre to the current MB-339PAN, the squadron has always used the most modern and efficient aircrafts. Today, with the announcement of the future addition of the M346 to its fleet, the Frecce Tricolori begins a new chapter in its legendary history. The transition from the MB-339PAN to the Leonardo M346 is scheduled for 2028.
