Originally delivered to the SVBIA (basic jet trainer school) at Lecce in 1962. In 1975, during overhaul by Aermacchi, it was converted into an MB.326E armed version, of which only 12 were delivered to the AMI. It continued to serve as a trainer as Lecce until supplanted by the MB.339, being re-assigned as a squadron liaison aircraft with 9º Stormo and then moving to 6º Stormo at Ghedi. After withdrawal from service in 1989, it was parked at San Possidonio airfield near Modena for nearly 20 years before restoration to flight, now operated by the Legend team from Reggio Emilia.

Airworthy and the most beautiful of the MB.326s I saw in Italy. It has less flying hours left than the single-seat MB.326K, I-MBCK, which should thus be seen around more often in the future. Historically I say the orange trainer is much more significant.

Italy Air Force trainers formation

restored by Giorgio Catellani /Volafenice

On static at the Berlin ILA 2014 airshow - Schönefeld Airport - SXF