History in brief: Ghibli, the light reconnaissance fighter-bomber

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In service with the Italian Air Force since 1988, the AMX, known by the nickname “Ghibli”, is an aircraft designed to carry out close support, tactical reconnaissance and air-to-ground cooperation missions with ground and naval forces.

Designed as a light and versatile platform, the AMX was characterised by its compact size (wingspan 8.87 m), a maximum speed of 1,040 km/h and high flexibility of use, being able to carry up to 3,800 kg of external loads.

On 21 February 2011, the first AMX equipped with the Litening targeting system took off, featuring state-of-the-art electro-optical and infrared sensors and a laser target designation system.

This integration marked a major technological leap forward, redefining the aircraft's operational capabilities. Until then, the use of laser-guided weapons required the support of ground designators or other airborne platforms. With the integration of the new system, the AMX gained full operational autonomy in this area.

Over the years, the aircraft gradually replaced the G.91R and ended its operational cycle on 30 April 2024.