RSAF SIAI-Marchetti SF.260

The SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 trainer aircraft enabled the RSAF to develop a modern and cost-effective military pilot-training scheme. Altogether, 105 Basic Wing Courses and 48 Flying Instructor Courses were conducted on the SF.260 fleet.

The SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 trainer aircraft, a two-seater, single-propeller plane, is popular for its excellent flight characteristics, high performance and low operating costs. Approximately 1,000 SF.260 trainers are in service with 27 air forces around the world. Some of these countries include Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Belgium and Italy.

The SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 was designed by famed Italian aircraft designer Stelio Frati (who was responsible for many renowned light aircraft designs) in the early 1960s. The SF.260 is now regarded as something of a classic thoroughbred. Its clean aerodynamic lines, retractable undercarriage and relatively powerful engine guarantee spirited performance.

SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 Specifications:

Max Speed : 200 miles per hour
Max Range : 1,273 miles at 10,000 ft above sea level
Engine Type : Lycoming 0-540-E4A5
Propeller Type : Hartzell HC-C2YK-1BF/F8477-8R
Fuel Type : AVGAS 100LL, G5572E

In 1997, Alenia Aermacchi (A Finmeccanica Company of Italy) took over SIAI-Marchetti and continues to market the aircraft as the Alenia Aermacchi F-260, but in low rate production only to support military orders.

Updated On: 18.10.15