The prototype of the Aermacchi M-345 HET (High Efficiency Trainer) two-seat basic jet trainer successfully completed its first flight from Venegono Superiore airfield (Varese, Italy) on 29th December. The aircraft — a redesignated M-311, powered by a Williams FJ44-4M-34 turbofan engine — was flown by Quirino Bucci and Giacomo Iannelli from Leonardo Aircraft Division. According to Bucci, the aircraft performed “perfectly” during the 30-minute flight.

The M-345 is designed to offer an affordable and effective military pilot training solution thanks to a significant reduction in acquisition and life-cycle costs compared to powerful turboprop trainer aircraft. Life-cycle cost reduction is driven by long fatigue life and two-level maintenance, the latter made possible by replacing the expensive general overhauls with the airframe and systems Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS).

The avionics, based on feedback from the M-346, matches the standards of the latest combat jets, including HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick) controls, Head Up Display (HUD), Multi-Function Displays (MFD) and real-time data link.

Leonardo says that the test campaign will be completed within 2017. Upcoming tests will focus on avionics systems, engine and flight envelope expansion, including altitude, speed and manoeuvrability.