Nigeria is buying 24 M-346FA jets, the sunshine fighter variant of the M-346 coach, as a part of the modernization of its air power.
For the primary time, an M-346FA destined to Nigeria has circulation with the total Nigerian Air Power livery. The plane, which is at present flying with the provisional Italian serial CSX55290, is the third constructed for the African nation, which flew for the primary time earlier this month.
Aviation photographer Tiziano Capenti captured the plane because it was getting back from the check flight on Apr. 27, 2026, and kindly shared the picture with us. The M-346s sports activities a full grey livery, with the nostril radome and prime of the vertical tail painted black.
The livery is accomplished by the roundel of the Nigerian Air Power beneath the cockpit and on the wings, in addition to a Nigerian flag on the tail. This seems to be the one plane with the Nigerian insignia, as a second M-346FA, CSX55284, is at present flying with solely the grey livery.
M-346FA for Nigeria
Nigeria signed a deal for the procurement of 24 M-346A plane in November 2023, though this was solely confirmed in 2024, after the nation’s Presidency confirmed its curiosity within the plane few months earlier. The nation additionally procured ten new AW109 Trekker helicopters, which might be part of the 2 already in service.
The deal is valued at roughly €1.2 billion ($1.4 billion) and features a coaching techniques, floor help tools, spare elements, munitions, and long-term logistical help. In accordance with the studies, the help by Leonardo with final 25 years, with a program workplace and upkeep hub to be established within the nation.
The M-346s are divided in 4 completely different batches, every together with six plane. In 2024, when the Chief of the Air Employees of the Nigerian Air Power visited Leonardo’s amenities in Venegono, the primary plane had been already being constructed.
Initially, it was reported that the primary plane had been to be delivered by 2025. It’s unclear when the M-346s shall be ferried to Nigeria, however it’s prone to occur this 12 months as quickly as all the primary three plane obtain the ultimate livery.
The procurement of the brand new plane is a part of the modernization of the Nigerian Air Power, which noticed quite a few new belongings being acquired. Along with coaching, the M-346FAs are anticipated to be employed in Shut Air Help (CAS) and Counter-insurgency (COIN) operations in opposition to insurgents within the area.
Curiously, this isn’t the primary Italian jet purchased by Nigeria. In actual fact, the nation operates additionally MB-339s which had been purchased within the Eighties.
The M-346FA
The M-346 Grasp celebrated in 2024 the twentieth anniversary since its first flight. The plane, thought of by many as essentially the most superior jet coach at present accessible, introduced many new applied sciences to enhance the coaching of future 4th and fifth gen fighter pilots, together with the state-of-the-art Floor-Primarily based Coaching System and the Dwell Digital and Constructive (LVC) applied sciences.
Along with its coaching variant, Leonardo has developed a combat-capable model of the plane referred to as the M-346 FA (Fighter Assault), also called Gentle Fighter Household of Plane (LFFA). Essentially the most seen variations from the usual AJT configuration are the 2 wingtip missile rails, that convey the entire hardpoints to seven, new antennas and the Defensive Assist Sub System (DASS).
The M-346FA variant is designed to retain the full twin position functionality of the AJT model, already in service with the Italian, Israeli, Polish and Singapore Air Forces, whereas incorporating additionally some new options like a tactical knowledge hyperlink, Grifo-346 mechanical scan, multi-mode radar, new safe radios and IFF system (Identification Buddy or Foe), and a stronger airframe.
The plane, which is being proposed for Homeland Defence/Air Policing, Gradual Mover Intercept, Shut Air Help (CAS), Counter INsurgency (COIN), Ahead Air Controller – Airborne (FAC-A), Fight Search And Rescue (CSAR), Interdiction, Battlefield Air Interdiction (BAI), Tactical Air Help for Maritime Operations (TASMO) and Tactical Reconnaissance roles, can carry greater than 2,000 kg of weapons.
Thanks once more to Tiziano Capenti for the picture he despatched us and ensure to comply with him on Instagram, Fb or Twitter @aplace2land for extra!
