Italian defense firm Leonardo is stepping up efforts to secure a training aircraft contract in Morocco, with the M-346 Master now at the center of its campaign to regain ground in a competitive procurement process.
Company executives and business development teams have intensified visits to Rabat in recent months, promoting the M-346 advanced jet trainer to Moroccan air force officials, according to Africa Intelligence.
The aircraft is positioned as the Leonardo’s lead candidate for pilot training modernization, though it faces strong competition from China’s Hongdu L-15 Falcon, which is currently seen by local military leadership as a frontrunner.
Beyond the aircraft itself, the bid is also shaped by broader industrial ties and past friction, the report stated.
Moroccan officials have previously raised concerns over cost and maintenance arrangements linked to earlier Leonardo platforms, including C-27J Spartan transport aircraft delivered in the 2010s.
Leonardo’s M-346
Leonardo is banking on the M-346’s operational track record in Europe and limited use in Africa.
In February, Indonesia signed a letter of intent for the potential acquisition and support of the M-346F aircraft.
The move follows its selection as a replacement for aging Hawk 209 and Hawk 109 aircraft to boost training and light combat capability.
In December, Austria completed a $1.7-billion purchase of 12 M-346FA combat aircraft, while Nigeria is also aiming for 24 units under a $1.4-billion deal. This transaction, if finalized, is considered the largest military procurement investment by a West African nation.
