G.91T/3

The Fiat G.91T/3 was the final production version of the Italian‑built G.91 trainer family, developed by Fiat Aviazione in the early 1970s to replace aging piston‑engine trainers in the Aeronautica Militare. Based on the proven G.91 fighter‑bomber, the T/3 kept the low‑wing, all‑metal airframe and single Rolls‑Royce Viper turbo‑jet, but featured a lengthened forward fuselage and a fully glazed, tandem cockpit for pilot and instructor. Dual hydraulic controls, an upgraded instrumentation suite and provision for NATO standard ejection seats made the aircraft suitable for both basic jet instruction and weapons‑delivery familiarisation. The T/3 could still carry the original G.91’s external stores, including 57 mm rockets, light bombs and drop tanks, allowing trainees to practice realistic combat missions. A total of 140 examples entered service, primarily with Italian squadrons and later with the Argentine and Salvadoran air forces. Its combination of modest performance, low operating cost, and seamless transition to frontline types helped standardise jet training across several NATO allies and demonstrated Italy’s capability to produce a complete, exportable jet trainer during the Cold War era. Today, the remaining G.91T/3 airframes serve as museum pieces and a reminder of European jet‑trainer innovation.