Aircraft

Canada's CAE has been selected as preferred full-mission simulator supplier for Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 advanced/lead-in fighter trainer, under the terms of a design, development and validation contract of undisclosed value.

The simulator will form part of the M-346 integrated training system, also to include onboard training systems and a complete range of ground-based products and services, ranging from paper and digital manuals to flight and mission simulation.

CAE will initially develop a prototype M-346 flight training device, including a cockpit replica with a Medallion-6000 image generator and dome display. The company will also provide a simulation-based development and validation environment to enable Aermacchi test pilots and engineers to carry out a series of tests intended to help in completing development of the M-346.

© Alenia Aermacchi

Selex Galileo will co-operate with CAE in developing the simulator, with the Italian company responsible for the cockpit and instructor operating station.

Alenia Aermacchi chief executive Carmelo Cosentino says: "After a competitive evaluation, we have selected CAE for its recognised simulation technology leadership and its willingness to actively participate in the Alenia Aermacchi team of industrial partners for the M-346 integrated training system."

The Finmeccanica company last month rolled out its first production-standard M-346 for the Italian air force, which is to acquire 15 under the launch order for the type.