Leonardo is exploring an expansion of its fighter pilot training operations in India
Italian aerospace and defence company Leonardo is exploring an expansion of its fighter pilot training operations in India, as the country modernises its air force and increases demand for advanced pilot training for current and future fighter platforms.
In a press statement, Leonardo says that it is looking to offer its Advanced and Lead-In Fighter Training programmes to support the training needs of Indian fighter pilots operating fourth-generation aircraft, with provisions that could also support a transition to fifth-generation platforms in the future.
Leonardo says that the proposed training model would be customised to India’s requirements and aimed at strengthening local defence capabilities while enabling long-term cooperation.
The statement adds that Leonardo’s interest comes at a time when India is expanding its fighter fleet and phasing out older aircraft, creating sustained demand for efficient and advanced pilot training. Aircraft such as the Tejas, Rafale, and Sukhoi form a growing part of India’s combat inventory, increasing the need for pilots trained for modern combat environments.
The company’s fighter pilot training offering is centred on its M-345 and M-346 aircraft, which can be deployed individually or together to cover the full training spectrum. The M-346, in particular, is designed to handle advanced training phases before pilots transition to frontline fighters, combining jet trainers with ground-based simulators and Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) training environments.
Leonardo’s M-346 training system is currently used by 20 operators worldwide, with around 160 aircraft sold and more than 150,000 flight hours logged. Training is also delivered through the International Flight Training School (IFTS), operated in collaboration with the Italian Air Force. Between mid-2022 and late 2025, IFTS recorded over 18,000 flight hours on aircraft and a similar number through simulation, completing more than 170 pilot training courses, with foreign trainees accounting for about 70 pc, says the statement.
It adds that the M-346 Block 20 variant includes updated avionics, an AESA radar, tactical data links and mission configurability, allowing the aircraft to perform both advanced training and light fighter roles. The platform can support air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and carry a range of weapons and external stores, while retaining its primary role as a training aircraft.
Leonardo says that its training model places emphasis on simulator-based instruction, using embedded tactical training systems and full mission simulators to replicate combat scenarios. The company states that this reduces flight hours on operational aircraft, improves training efficiency, and lowers costs.
The statement adds that India’s operating environment is seen as suitable for the M-346, with the aircraft already in service in regions with hot and humid climates, including the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
It adds that the engagement with India’s defence ecosystem would support pilot readiness for modern combat platforms while aligning with evolving operational and training requirements.