Leap in speed
Günter Endres
Following the release of the flight control software for the Alenia Aermacchi M-346, the second prototype (X616) of this twin-engined advanced and lead-in jet fighter trainer was tested to explore a considerable extension of the aircraft’s flight envelope.
In three flights of about one hour each carried out in December, the M-346 brushed the speed of sound, attaining Mach 0.96 – a substantial increase on the previous limit of Mach 0.85. According to the Italian manufacturer, this programme phase highlighted the compliance with the design data and the results of the tests carried out on the simulator.
The new software allows a smooth operation of flight controls and, together with the automatic limitation of the load factor, is said to ensure an easier, more comfortable and safer handling of the aircraft.
Furthermore, said the company, the optimisation of the leading edge deflection has significantly improved performance at high angle of attack and during aerobatics. Its full authority quadruplex fly-by-wire control system allows the aircraft to remain fully controllable at angles of attack up to 40º. This, combined with its twin-engined safety and its ability to simulate sensors and threats in flight makes the M-346 “the world’s leading tactical pre-operational training aircraft”, the company claimed.
The first prototype has been flying since 15 July 2004, with number two taking to the air on 17 May 2005. The first pre-production aircraft is under construction at the
company’s plant at Venegono and is expected to fly at the end of 2007. All three aircraft will contribute towards type certification aimed for late 2008.
The aircraft is targeted at the Advanced European Jet Pilot Training programme, with a potential market of about 200 aircraft for 10 European air forces, but short-to-medium opportunities also exist in other markets in Asia and the UAE.
Alenia Aermacchi can be found in the Italian Pavilion on Stands 1708 and 1711, and outdoors at OD1750.
 : In three flights of about one hour each, the M-346 brushed the speed of sound, attaining Mach 0.96 |