Austria will replace its retired Saab 105 training jets by purchasing twelve Italian-made Leonardo M-346FA jets, the Ministry of Defence announced on Saturday.

The deal will ensure that pilot training is conducted entirely in Austria, strengthening the country’s air defence capabilities, according to Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner. The specific cost has not been disclosed.

Negotiations for the contract are ongoing with the Italian government. The Italian Ministry of Defence, which also aims to acquire new jet trainers, proposed the partnership.

Closing the Capability Gap

The Leonardo M-346FA is a two-seat, weapon-capable subsonic jet designed for training, supporting ground forces, and airspace defence. “With the purchase of these jets, we are closing a significant capability gap in our air forces,” Tanner said. The decision follows the recommendation of the General Staff.

Chancellor Karl Nehammer hailed the deal as a sign of “strong collaboration and friendship between Italy and Austria.” He extended his special thanks to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her key role in securing the agreement.

Shifting Training Practices

The Saab 105 jets were retired due to age, leading the Austrian Armed Forces to abandon its two-fleet system. Since then, Eurofighter pilot training has been conducted abroad, resulting in higher costs. In 2022, Minister Tanner instructed a review of the purchase of new jet trainers, leading to the decision to acquire the Leonardo M-346FA.