Austria plans to purchase 12 Italian-made M-346 FA fighter jets to replace the Saab 105 aircraft it retired at the end of 2020.
This was reported by Reuters with reference to a government statement, reports “European Pravda”.
As reported by the agency, the Austrian Ministry of Defense reported that negotiations are currently underway with the Italian government to conclude a contract.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Negammer stated that this agreement demonstrates the strength of cooperation between Italy and Austria.
“I express my special gratitude to Prime Minister Giorgi Maloni, who made a significant contribution to the conclusion of this agreement,” – he said in a statement.
The planes will be used for pilot training, support for ground forces and air defense, the government said.