Aircraft

PICTURE: Aermacchi M-346 completes first in-flight refuelling

By Pino Modola

Alenia Aermacchi's second prototype M-346 jet trainer accomplished its first in-flight refuelling operations on 24-25 January, receiving fuel from an Italian air force Panavia Tornado equipped with a "buddy" hose-and-drogue refuelling pod.

The M-346, carrying two 580-litre (153USgal)underwing tanks, first completed a series of dry contacts to verify manoeuvres before receiving fuel from the Tornado.