From
22 to 29 December 2006, a new release of the flight control software
for the M-346 prototype no. 2 was tested to allow a considerable
extension of the aircraft flight envelope.
The aircraft performed three flights of approx 1 hour each and attained a speed of 0.96 Mach, thus superseding the previous limit of 0.85 Mach.
This program phase highlighted the perfect compliance
with the design data and the results of the tests carried out on the
simulator. It further confirmed the excellent performance, flying
qualities and safety features of the M-346.
By the implementation of this new software, thanks to the smooth operation of flight controls and the automatic limitation of the load factor,
an even easier, more comfortable and safer handling of the aircraft is
obtained. In addition, the optimization of the leading edge deflection
has significantly improved the aircraft performance at high
angle-of-attack and during aerobatics.
The program is progressing at a very fast pace, and in
early 2007, the aircraft maturity will enable additional engineering
targets to be met, thus underpinning the remarkable controllability and
maneuverability characteristics of the aircraft in both the subsonic
and high transonic ranges.
The trainer design is able to meet the most sophisticated and demanding requirements of the Air Forces worldwide.
The aircraft operational capabilities and the clearance
for the complete flight envelope, which is drawing near, demonstrate
the Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica Company, technological
capabilities and its leading role in the training aircraft sector.
Meanwhile, the first pre-production aircraft is being manufactured at Alenia Aermacchi plants, Venegono, and its first flight is scheduled for late 2007.
This aircraft is the result of technologies, design and
manufacture solutions, which permit a considerable reduction in the
acquisition and life cycle costs. This will ensure the M-346 a
competitive edge in the international market, where the aircraft is
gaining a positive reputation within the framework of the evaluation
processes that many Air Forces are conducting on the aircraft.
Developed on the basis of specific and stringent
requirements defined by 10 European Air Forces, the M-346 is Alenia
Aermacchi's top-of-the-range product. It is also recognized as the best
aircraft and a unique machine in the category of advanced trainers in
Europe, which is capable of effectively simulating the performance,
operational scenarios and cockpit of the latest generation fighters
such as the, Eurofighter, Gripen, Rafale, F-16, F-22 and the future JSF.
Thanks to its high training effectiveness and the outstanding 'downloading' capabilities, the
M-346 represents a quantum leap in the military training field.
And last but not least, the M-346 can extend its
performance to specific operational missions concerning national
security and also meet the defense requirements of the emergent
countries.
