Aermacchi
MB-339AM
The Aermacchi MB‑339 AM is a modernized version of the Italian‑made MB‑339 trainer and light attack aircraft, first introduced in the early 1980s as a successor to the MB‑326. Developed by Aermacchi (now part of Leonardo), the AM variant entered service in the mid‑1990s, incorporating extensive upgrades that extended the airframe’s life and boosted performance for both military training and combat roles. Key features include a digital glass cockpit with multifunction displays, a modernized FIAT‑G 210‑20 turbofan engine delivering 2,500 lbf of thrust, and reinforced wing hard points capable of carrying up to 1,600 kg of ordnance such as rockets, missiles, and precision‑guided bombs. Enhanced avionics provide NATO‑compatible communication, navigation, and radar‑warning systems, while a revised hydraulic and flight‑control system improves handling and reliability. The MB‑339 AM has been adopted by several air forces, notably the Italian Air Force, which uses it to transition pilots to advanced fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon. Its versatility, low operating cost, and proven track record make the aircraft a cornerstone of pilot training programs and a cost‑effective platform for light attack missions, underscoring its lasting significance in modern aviation.