Defense News is reporting that the Italian Air Force will place an order for the M345 HET with Leonardo-Finmeccanica this year, once funds are approved.
Julian Herzog [GFDL or CC BY 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The prototype, powered by the Williams FJ44-4M-34, will be making its maiden flight this year as well. It will have a three-screen cockpit, similar to the higher-end M-346.
The engine will deliver 10 percent more thrust than the version installed on the M-311. It will help customers achieve significant cost savings due to its civilian applications. Parts are cheaper to procure and maintenance costs are lower.