Date: 3rd Sep 2014, Wednesday

RSAF inaugurates M-346 aircraft into 150 squadron

The Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Advanced Jet Trainer aircraft was inaugurated into 150 Squadron at Cazaux Air Base in France. The 150 Squadron has received the full fleet of 12 M-346 aircraft.

Singapore's Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen was in France to officiate the ceremony.   Dr Ng said "The M-346 allows our trainee pilots to be able to be exposed to air combat environments within the cockpit - they can be simulated, as in handling electronic warfare systems, multi-mode radar and Beyond Visual Range missiles, early in their training. And I think this will enhance the quality and realism of our flying training, and allow us to produce fighter aircrew that are well-equipped to operate current and future fighter platforms." Dr Ng also commended RSAF personnel for their professionalism and dedication to their training, and expressed confidence that they would continue to push the training envelope to produce the next generation of world class fighter aircrew for a first class air force.

The RSAF acquired the M-346 aircraft in 2010 as part of the Advanced Jet Trainer programme to replace the aging A-4SU Super Skyhawk, and took delivery of the first aircraft in 2012.

The RSAF's training in France since 1998 and has also enhanced the strong and broad-based defence relationship between France and Singapore.

Updated On: 15.02.24