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Aermacchi MB-339

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Aermacchi
IndustryAerospace
Founded1912 in Italy
Headquarters
Italy
ProductsMilitary aircraft, including the MB-339 jet trainer and light attack aircraft


Template:Infobox aircraft

The Aermacchi MB-339 is a military jet designed and built by the Italian aerospace firm Aermacchi to serve as both an advanced trainer and a light attack aircraft.

Conceived in the 1970s to fulfill a requirement from the Italian Air Force for a successor to their aging Aermacchi MB-326 fleet, the MB-339’s design was largely based on its predecessor rather than being an entirely new model. This approach resulted in significant design commonalities between the two aircraft. Aermacchi determined that the MB-339 met all operational criteria while offering a cost-effective solution. The prototype conducted its initial flight on 12 August 1976, with production models entering service two years thereafter.

Approximately fifty percent of all MB-339 units were acquired by the Italian Air Force, while the remainder were exported internationally. Beyond its training role, the MB-339 is also utilized by the Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team. The aircraft has seen combat deployment, notably with the Eritrean Air Force during the Eritrean–Ethiopian War (1998–2000) and with Argentine Naval Aviation in the Falklands War of 1982, primarily fulfilling attack missions in both conflicts. In Italian service, plans are underway to replace the MB-339 with the newer Aermacchi M-345.

Development

In September 1972, Aermacchi received a contract to investigate options for replacing the Italian Air Force’s aging fleet of Aermacchi MB-326 trainers, which had been a mainstay advanced jet trainer throughout the 1960s. During this evaluation phase, seven entirely new design concepts collectively called MB-338 were compared against an upgraded version of the MB-326 designated MB-339. The assessment concluded that the MB-339 could fulfill all required specifications at a lower production cost than any clean-sheet alternatives. Consequently, Aermacchi submitted the MB-339 for official consideration; by 1975 it was selected to succeed both the MB-326 and Fiat G.91T aircraft in Italian service.

The prototype, known as MB-339X, completed its maiden flight on 12 August 1976. The first production-standard MB-339A flew in July 1978, with deliveries to the Aeronautica Militare commencing in 1979. The Italian Air Force became the principal operator of this type; between 1978 and 1987, it received 101 units—nearly half of all MB-339s produced.

Aermacchi developed several enhanced variants over time. In 1980, a dedicated single-seat attack model called the MB-339K Veltro II conducted its first flight. By 1985, the MB-339B, which incorporated light attack capabilities, entered operational use. That year also saw the initial flight of the MB-339C, designed as a dual-role platform featuring various improvements. The late 1980s marked customer availability of the upgraded MB-339C, distinguished primarily by a significantly modernized cockpit. Italy opted to procure the MB-339CD variant early on; besides its fully digital cockpit, this model included a fixed probe for aerial refueling training.

In 1989, Aermacchi partnered with American defense company Lockheed and General Motors’ aircraft division to jointly compete in the U.S. Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) program. Their entry was a modified MB-339 known as T-Bird II. Lockheed was slated to serve as prime contractor and system integrator, assembling aircraft at its Marietta facility, while General Motors would contribute computerized training expertise. Ultimately, this bid was unsuccessful; instead, Raytheon and Pilatus secured the contract with their turboprop-powered T-6 Texan II.

Throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s, multiple batches of MB-339CDs were inducted into Italian service. Several operators also upgraded existing airframes to meet MB-339C standards. During this period, Aermacchi proposed an MB-339FD (Full Digital) variant; however, it attracted limited commercial interest. In 2006, following renewed demand from three separate customers, production was restarted after having been dormant for several years.

Due to corporate mergers and restructuring during the 1990s and 2000s, Aermacchi offered multiple trainer models alongside the MB-339—including propeller-driven types such as the SF-260 and S.211 as well as jet trainers like the M-311 and M-346 Master. According to company representative Giorgio Brazzelli, these various platforms collectively form an integrated training system tailored for client needs.

Design

The Aermacchi MB-339 serves as a military jet trainer and light attack aircraft, characterized by a traditional layout, tricycle landing gear, and an all-metal airframe. Its design closely resembles that of the MB-326, sharing much of the earlier model’s structural framework. Aviation publication Air International highlights the most notable update in the MB-339 as a redesigned forward fuselage, which elevated the instructor’s seat to improve visibility over the student pilot seated ahead. Typically, the aircraft is operated by two crew members arranged in tandem; during training flights, the student occupies the front seat while the instructor sits directly behind and slightly elevated. The cockpit is pressurized and enclosed by a jettisonable canopy paired with twin Martin-Baker ejection seats.

The MB-339 features a low-mounted, unswept wing equipped with tip tanks, with air intakes for its single turbojet engine integrated into the wing roots. This wing design is identical to that found on the earlier MB-326K variant. Initial versions of the aircraft were powered by the Rolls-Royce Viper 632-43 turbojet engine, delivering up to 4,000 lbf (17.8 kN) of thrust—the same engine model used on the MB-326K. Subsequent variants like the MB-339C incorporate the more powerful Viper 680 engine, capable of producing 4,300 lbf (19.57 kN) of thrust. Aerodynamic improvements include a larger vertical stabilizer compared to its predecessor.

While some MB-339 variants focus primarily on training roles, others are configured for light fighter or fighter-bomber missions. Combat-ready versions are generally equipped with enhanced avionics such as advanced inertial navigation systems, digital navigation and attack computers, MIL-STD-1553B databus integration, and HOTAS-compatible controls. Defensive equipment often includes radio jammers, radar warning receivers (RWR), electronic countermeasures (ECM), and increased wingtip fuel capacity. The MB-339K carries two 30mm DEFA cannons and can support up to six underwing hardpoints with a maximum external load of 1,815 kilograms (4,000 lb). It is certified to carry various weaponry including AIM-9 Sidewinder and R.550 Magic air-to-air missiles, AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles, laser-guided bombs, rockets, and Marte Mk.2 anti-ship missiles. Forecast International notes that Aermacchi had considered adding provisions for two additional pod-mounted 30mm cannons.

General use

File:Mb 339 esposto a Volandia.jpg
MB-339 displayed at the Volandia Museum near Milan Malpensa Airport

The MB-339 has been predominantly operated by the Italian Air Force, which first introduced the aircraft into service in 1978. Over the years, the Air Force has acquired several variants and production batches, establishing the MB-339 as its primary trainer for many decades. Besides its role in pilot training, the MB-339 is also employed by the Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team. Notably, in 1988, three aircraft were lost during a fatal airshow incident in Germany.[1]

In October 2013, plans were announced for the Italian Air Force to gradually phase out its MB-339 fleet in favor of newly manufactured M-345 trainers.[2][3] The M-345 is set to assume the role of basic trainer for the Italian Air Force and will also be utilized by the Frecce Tricolori team.[4]

During the 1980s and 1990s, several operators, including the Royal New Zealand Air Force, selected the MB-339 to replace older jet-powered attack aircraft such as the British-built BAC Strikemaster.[5] While aerobatic use is less common among export customers, certain operators like the United Arab Emirates have procured multiple MB-339s specifically for aerobatic demonstration purposes. The Emirati aerobatic team, Al Fursan, flies seven MB-339A aircraft, six of which have been upgraded to the MB-339NAT standard since 2010.[6] According to a 2014 Forecast International report, the more recent MB-339CD variant continues to serve effectively as a training platform for advanced fighters like the Panavia Tornado and Eurofighter Typhoon. Nevertheless, its popularity is diminishing and is expected to remain primarily with countries that possess limited defense budgets or face minimal military threats beyond the 2010s.[5]

Argentina

File:Aermacchi MB 339 "VELTRO" 4-A-117.jpg
MB-339A operated by Argentine Naval Aviation

The Argentine Naval Aviation (Comando de Aviación Naval or COAN) became the initial international customer for the predecessor MB-326GB, acquiring eight units in 1969.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

In 1980, COAN placed an order for ten MB-339A advanced trainers with light attack capabilities. Delivered in 1981, these aircraft were assigned to the III Escuadra Navals 1 Escuadrilla de Ataque.[7] By late April 1982, during the Falklands War, six MB-339As were stationed at Port Stanley Airport, which had been renamed Base Aérea Militar (BAM) Malvinas.[7] These jets represented the sole attack aircraft operating from the Falklands, complemented by four Beech T-34 Turbo-Mentor light attack and training planes, alongside twenty-four turboprop FMA IA 58 Pucará attack aircraft belonging to Grupo 3 de Ataque.[8] Additional Aermacchis were based at three naval air stations on the mainland: Almirante Zar, Bahía Blanca, and Río Grande, Tierra del Fuego.[9]

On 3 May 1982, Lieutenant Benitez tragically died after crashing into elevated terrain while on approach to Port Stanley airport. Later, on 21 May, Lieutenant Owen Crippa piloted an MB-339A during a reconnaissance mission and launched an attack on the Royal Navy amphibious group, striking the frigate HMS Argonaut and inflicting minor damage.[10][11] During the Battle for Goose Green on 27 May, an MB-339A (4-A-114) was downed by a Blowpipe missile while attempting to engage British naval vessels and ground forces; its pilot, Lieutenant Miguel, was killed.[12][13] The British forces captured three MB-339 airframes,[14] with one preserved at the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, located in Doncaster.[15]

Eritrea

In the late 1990s, amid rising tensions with Ethiopia, Eritrea embarked on rebuilding its air force capabilities. In 1996, Eritrea procured six Aermacchi MB-339CE aircraft, which led to the establishment of its first combat squadron in 1997.[16] These aircraft have demonstrated their effectiveness both as trainers and in combat during the early stages of the conflict in 1998.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

Their first combat engagement occurred on 5 June 1998—the same day that the Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) commenced operations—when Eritrean MB-339FDs reportedly launched two attacks against Mekelle, capital of Ethiopia's Tigray region. Ethiopian sources claimed that these strikes resulted in approximately 44 civilian fatalities and injured around 135 individuals.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

The following day, on 6 June, one MB-339 was downed north of Mekelle; its pilot ejected safely and was either recovered by an ERAF Mi-8 helicopter or captured by local militia forces.[17] Eritrean Aermacchis returned to combat operations the next day amid fighting near Erde Mattios.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

On the morning of June 12, a pair of Eritrean Mil Mi-8 helicopters conducted low-level bombing attempts against Addis Pharmaceutical works in Adigrat, though their ordnance landed just short of the target causing minimal damage. Later that same day, four MB-339s executed rocket and cluster bomb attacks on multiple locations within Adigrat; Ethiopian accounts report four fatalities and thirty injuries resulting from these strikes.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

On February 5, 1999, Ethiopian authorities asserted that two Eritrean MB-339FDs targeted a fuel depot in Adigrat situated approximately forty-eight kilometres inside Ethiopian territory—a critical supply point for Ethiopian military fuel logistics.Template:Fix/category[citation needed]

Variants

File:Boeing 707 refuelling MB-339.JPG
Italian Air Force Boeing 707 refuelling MB-339s
File:Aermacchi MB-339 Freccia Tricolore.jpg
An MB-339PAN
MB-339X
Consisted of three prototype aircraft.[5]
MB-339A
Initial production model designed for Italy, with a total of 107 units delivered in three separate batches between 1979 and 1995, including both MB-339PANs and MB-339RMs.[18][19] Additionally, four units were supplied to Ghana and five to the United Arab Emirates.[20][5]
MB-339PAN
Model tailored for the Frecce Tricolori aerobatic squadron, equipped with a smoke generator and omitting tip tanks; comprised of 21 aircraft either newly constructed or converted from the MB-339A variant.[21][22]
MB-339RM
Specialized radio and radar calibration version developed for the Italian Air Force. Three units were produced in 1981 but were subsequently reverted back to the MB-339A configuration.[21]
MB-339AM
Version of the MB-339A manufactured for Malaysia, with a total of thirteen delivered starting from 1983.[20]
MB-339AN
Variant based on the MB-339A built for Nigeria, with twelve units produced from June 1984 onward.[20]
MB-339AP
Peruvian version derived from the MB-339A, comprising sixteen aircraft delivered beginning November 1981.[20]
File:Aermacchi MB-339K Veltro 2 AN1917934.jpg
The single-seat MB-339K prototype
MB-339K Veltro II
A single-seat attack-focused model which had its maiden flight on May 30, 1980.[23] Only one unit was constructed.[24]
MB-339B
A trainer variant powered by a more potent Viper 680-43 engine delivering 4,400 lbf (19.57 kN). Only one example was built.[21]
MB-339C
A redesigned trainer featuring updated digital avionics.[25]
MB-339CB
Trainer and weapons training model for New Zealand based on the MB-339C, equipped with a Viper 680-43 engine along with laser rangefinder, radar warning systems, and capable of deploying AIM-9L Sidewinder and AGM-65 Maverick missiles. Eighteen units were built and delivered starting March 1991.[18][26][27] – Sixteen remain today – eight are operational with SDTS in France while the others are preserved in museums throughout New Zealand.
MB-339CD
Italian version of the MB-339C featuring upgraded flight controls and avionics but retaining the original Viper 632-43 engine rated at 4,000 lbf (17.79 kW) from the MB-339A. A total of thirty units were produced.[28]
MB-339FD ("Full Digital")
Export-oriented variant derived from the MB-339CD model.[25]
MB-339CE
Variant of the MB-339C built for Eritrea powered by the Viper 680-43 engine. Six units were manufactured.[18]
MB-339CM
Version currently being produced for Malaysia.
MB-339 T-Bird II (Lockheed T-Bird II)
Model developed for participation in the U.S. JPATS competition, featuring a Viper engine producing 4,000 lbf thrust (680-582 variant).[25]

Operators

File:FrecceTricolori01.jpg
Frecce Tricolori at RIAT 2005 during their anniversary celebration
Template:Country data Eritrea
File:Flag of Italy.svg Italy
  • The Italian Air Force operates a fleet comprising 72 MB-339A MLU, 30 MB-339CD, 21 MB-339PAN, and 3 MB-339RM jets.
Template:Country data United Arab Emirates
File:Flag of France.svg France
  • SDTS maintains 8 MB-339CB aircraft, with an additional 9 acquired from Draken International. One aircraft was lost in an accident at Nîmes-Garons Airport on October 10, 2023.

Former operators

Template:Country data Argentina
Template:Country data Ghana
File:Flag of Peru.svg Peru
Template:Country data Malaysia
File:Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand
File:Flag of Nigeria.svg Nigeria
File:Flag of the United States.svg USA

Specifications (MB-339A)

Orthographic view of the Aermacchi MB-339A
Orthographic view of the Aermacchi MB-339A

Template:Aircraft specs

See also

Template:Aircontent

References

  1. ↑ "KEEP IT TIGHT: 10 flight display teams of note." Archived 12 March 2017 at the Wayback Machine Flight International, 9 October 2015.
  2. ↑ Peruzzi, Luca. "Italy commits to M-345 HET trainer." Archived 9 October 2013 at the Wayback Machine Flight International, 3 October 2013.
  3. ↑ Peruzzi, Luca. "FARNBOROUGH: Alenia Aermacchi pushes training solutions." Flight International, 17 July 2014.
  4. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named forecast 2014
  6. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Chant 2001, p. 35.
  8. ↑ Chant 2001, pp. 35–36.
  9. ↑ Chant 2001, p. 92.
  10. ↑ Chant 2001, p. 62.
  11. ↑ Ethell and Price 1983, p. 108.
  12. ↑ Freedman, Sir Lawrence. "The Official History of the Falklands Campaign." Abingdon, 2005. Volume II. pp. 732-35.
  13. ↑ Chant 2001, pp. 66–67.
  14. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  15. ↑ "Aircraft list." Archived 15 December 2018 at the Wayback Machine South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, 18 June 2019.
  16. ↑ "Eritrea orders six MB-339 trainers." Archived 14 January 2014 at the Wayback Machine Flight Global, 27 March 1996. Retrieved: 14 January 2014.
  17. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 Jackson 2003, pp. 276–278.
  19. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 20.2 20.3 Jackson 2003, p. 278.
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 21.2 Jackson 2003, p. 276.
  22. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  23. ↑ Taylor 1980, pp. 777–778.
  24. ↑ Braybrook 1992, p. 143.
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 Jackson 2003, p. 277.
  26. ↑ Braybrook 1992, pp. 143–144.
  27. ↑ Wright 1992, p. 251.
  28. ↑ Jackson 2003, pp. 277–278.

Sources

  • Braybrook, Roy. "Aermacchi MB-339C". Air International, September 1992, Vol. 43, No. 3. pp. 137–144.
  • Chant, Christopher. Air War in the Falklands 1982. Oxford, UK, Osprey Combat Aircraft 28, 2001. ISBN 978-1-84176-293-7.
  • Ethell, Jeffrey and Alfred Price. Air War South Atlantic. London: Sidgwick & Jackson, 1983. ISBN 978-0-283-99035-9.
  • "Initial Malaysian MB-339CMs Delivered". Air International, April 2009, Vol.76, No. 4. p. 7.
  • Jackson, Paul. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 2003–2004. Coulsdon, UK: Jane's Information Group, 2003. ISBN 978-0-7106-2537-3.
  • "Mentor with a Pedigree: Aeronautica Macchi's MB-339". Air International, June 1978, Vol. 14 no. 6. pp. 267–276, 310–311.
  • Taylor, John W.R. (ed.) Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1980–81. London: Jane's Publishing. ISBN 978-0-7106-0705-8.
  • Wright, Matthew. "Not all black for the winged Kiwis". Air International, May 1992, Vol. 42, No. 5. pp. 249–257.

External links

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