The Canadian government is advancing discussions to acquire approximately 30 Italian-manufactured M-346 fighter-jet training aircraft, a deal that could emerge as one of the most significant aerospace defence transactions in the country’s history. A technical delegation is scheduled to visit Rome later this week to negotiate the details of this potential acquisition, which is expected to be a government-to-government agreement.
High-Level Talks at G7 Summit
Last week, during the G7 Summit held in Évian, France, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni initiated conversations regarding this procurement. The discussions aimed to bolster trade and investment collaboration in key areas such as defence and critical metals. “Canada and Italy are becoming increasingly close in defence and security,” stated a representative from Mr. Carney’s office. “Leveraging Italian expertise in aerospace and defence, this [M-346] agreement will enable the Royal Canadian Air Force to train with state-of-the-art equipment.”
While specifics regarding the timing and financial implications of the deal remain undisclosed, the potential acquisition of 30 aircraft underscores Canada’s urgent demand for trained pilots capable of operating next-generation fighter jets that are currently on order.
M-346: A Modern Solution for Pilot Training
The M-346, manufactured by Leonardo SpA—an Italian defence firm partially owned by the Italian government—serves as a “lead-in” trainer. This type of aircraft is designed to prepare pilots for advanced flying, including the operation of sophisticated fighter-bombers like the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth jet.
Canada has already placed a firm order for 16 F-35s and has initiated payments for an additional 14 aircraft. Furthermore, the Canadian government is evaluating the possibility of acquiring Swedish-designed Saab Gripen fighters, which would be produced domestically for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and could also be exported, potentially to Ukraine.
Ongoing Collaborations and Previous Sales
Interestingly, the M-346 is already in use for training Canadian pilots through a partnership with CAE, a leading manufacturer of flight simulators. The company collaborates with Leonardo to train NATO pilots at an Italian Air Force base in Sardinia, combining Italian aircraft with Canadian virtual reality technology to enhance combat training.
In a notable development earlier this year, Leonardo made its first sale of M-346s to Canada, with ITPS, a private pilot training company operating from airports in London and North Bay, Ontario, purchasing six of the jets with options for an additional six. M-346 aircraft typically range in price from USD 20 million to USD 40 million, depending on features like radar and reconnaissance capabilities. The cost may escalate if maintenance contracts and training equipment, such as ground-based simulators, are included.
The Bigger Picture
Leonardo has successfully sold over 160 M-346s globally, with the aircraft being utilised in 20 countries. The M-346 has also been chosen by the Italian Air Force for its prestigious Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team, highlighting its capabilities and appeal.
Why it Matters
The potential acquisition of M-346 aircraft signifies a vital step for Canada in revitalising its pilot training programmes and enhancing its defence capabilities. As global military dynamics shift, investing in advanced training systems is crucial for maintaining operational readiness and ensuring that the Royal Canadian Air Force remains competitive on the international stage. This move not only strengthens ties between Canada and Italy but also showcases Canada’s commitment to modernising its military infrastructure amidst evolving geopolitical challenges.
