Austria secures Leonardo jets: Greens demand price clarification!

Austria secures Leonardo jets: Greens demand price clarification!

Austria plans to procure 12 M-346FA (Fighter Attack) jets from Leonardo to replace the aging Saab 105 fleet. The Ministry of Defense expects the exact cost of these aircraft to be available by the end of June 2025. The procurement is part of a government-to-government deal with Italy and was supported by a market analysis which showed that only the M-346 and the South Korean T-50 met the required operational criteria. However, due to operating costs and speed, the M-346 was chosen, while the T-50 was considered too expensive. This is reported by the Small newspaper.

The detailed planning included a clear separation between the planning and procurement phases, with experts translating operational requirements into a technical performance profile. The M-346FA is being developed as a light combat aircraft and is intended to bring the Austrian Air Force up to date with the latest technology. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner had already stated in September 2024 that a joint purchase with Italy was being considered. The deal follows a December 2024 memorandum of understanding agreement intended to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations.

Details about the M-346FA

The M-346FA is designed not only as a training trainer, but also as a light fighter jet with comprehensive dual-role capabilities. Their use includes various roles such as air defense, close air support and reconnaissance. A total of 12 aircraft are to be procured under the agreement, with the option of 12 more. In addition to the jets, the package also includes training equipment and extensive training materials for pilots, such as the full mission trainer and Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) skills. In addition, equipment kits for FA configuration and integrated systems for modern air combat are also planned The Aviationist.

The technology introduced in 2024 in the M-346 is considered advanced in the field of aviation. Improvements to the cockpit, new navigation and weapon systems as well as the integration of modern weapon technologies such as the AESA radar are planned. While the contract is currently still being negotiated, the exact purchase price is yet to be published.

Criticism and challenges

The planned procurement is particularly met with resistance from the Greens, who complain that there was no international tender and that the purchase price appears excessive compared to other countries. There are also concerns about tailored technical requirements that may not be in the best interests of defense, such as Small newspaper reported.

The focus on European suppliers such as Leonardo is part of a larger trend in the European defense industry, which aims to achieve cost savings through joint procurement and improve the interoperability of the armed forces. Initiatives such as the European Defense Fund, which promotes investment in the military-industrial sector, and programs such as EDIRPA are strategic instruments to promote defense cooperation within the EU, as in Ithy is explained.