Aermacchi has recently signed a contract with the Italian Air Force for the purchasing of 30 primary trainers SF-260EA, in a new configuration to meet the requirements of the Italian Air Force.
As agreed in the contract Aermacchi will buy-back the 21 SF-260 AM presently owned by the IAF.
The first aircraft delivery is planned by the beginning of 2005.
The contract includes, together with the non-recurring development activities and efforts for the certification of the SF-260EA, also training activities and integrated logistic support provided directly at the base of the 71st Wing of the IAF, which will operate the aircraft in Latina (near Rome).
The agreements in the contract make provision for the settlement of an Aermacchi Logistic Support Centre within the military base, whose task will be to help the IAF personnel during maintenance operations. The Logistic Centre will also handle material, spares and tools by means of an advanced computer system.
Training activities will cover training for instructor pilots including one test pilot, and technicians including one flight test technician. This contract rises to 880 units the number of SF-260 sold by Aermacchi worldwide to 27 different air forces.
Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica Company, is the Italian aeronautical industry mostly experienced in the design and manufacture of military trainer aircraft. The Aermacchi types cover the whole spectrum of the training needs in its three classic phases: primary, basic and advanced. Aermacchi activities cover also international collaborations in the military and civil fields. In this latter field in particular, the Company has acquired a significant experience in the design and manufacture of engine nacelles for commercial airliners and business jets.
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Aermacchi Signed a Contract with the IAF for the Provision of 30 Primary Trainers SF-260EA
