The IFTS training syllabus will be based on the current versatile AM modular syllabus exploiting Leonardo’s innovative integrated training system (ITS). The advanced training courses offered will consist of a standard set including air- to-air and air-to-ground modules that all student pilots must complete. The standard package can be expanded by additional modules such as advanced air-to-air training, advanced air-to-ground training with sorties to the polygon range, the use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG), aerial refuelling and specific training focused on the use of sensors, datalink and electronic warfare. In total six differ- ent courses will be available, and slightly more than half of the total amount of sorties during the course(s) will be flown in the simulator.
The IFTS will offer tailored training modules to meet specific needs of other countries’ Air Forces. This is achieved by a detailed analysis of the training pro- gramme run by the relevant air force, with basic training included. With this approach training can be optimised improving capabilities of the (foreign) student pilot while reducing the amount of training required in an Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) saving cost in terms of expensive flight hours, time and resources. The IFTS project foresees in the short term a relocation of the school to exploit the full potential of the T346A ITS, enabling at the same time a further expansion of advanced flight training capacity to an estimated 8,000 flight hours annually.
The relocation of Phase IV to a different base will create spare capacity at Galatina to enhance basic training capacity offered by 61° Stormo with the introduction of the M-345 integrated training system. The amount of T-345A (AM designation of the M-345) training flights could be increased up to the maximum operational capacity of 61° Stormo at the airbase, approximately 12,000 flight hours a year.
At the 2019 Paris Airshow held at Le Bourget in June, Decimomannu, located in the southern part of the island of Sardinia, was announced as the second training base alongside Lecce-Galatina. In 2021, IFTS will move to its new, dedicated facility, which will also entail the relocation of all 22 T-346s to Decimomannu.
