The TA-4E-ASA-M Skyhawk is a twin-seat, modernized and customized evolution of the TA-4E, developed to meet the Italian Air Force’s requirements for advanced training, light interception, and secondary multirole combat duties. Integrated into the 6th Wing, the TA-4E-ASA-M combines the Skyhawk’s compact agility with upgraded weapon systems and avionics, enabling credible air-to-air capability alongside training and tactical support roles.
Designed as both an advanced lead-in fighter trainer and a lightweight interceptor, the TA-4E-ASA-M provides a cost-effective solution for air defense, aggressor operations, and NATO interoperability during a transitional period between legacy interceptors and 4th-generation fighters.

Key Specifications:

Engine: Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet, upgraded with digital control elements for improved reliability and maintainability
Top speed: 675 mph (1,086 km/h)
Combat radius: optimized for point air defense and tactical patrol missions
Ordnance capacity: up to 9,900 lbs (4,490 kg) across 5 external hardpoints
Fixed armament:
2 × Colt Mk 12 20 mm cannons

ASA-M Modifications (Weapon System Update – Modified)

Upgraded avionics suite featuring a multifunction HUD, advanced INS/GPS, and NATO-standard datalink for air defense coordination
Enhanced air-intercept radar with limited look-down/shoot-down capability
Full integration of modern air-to-air weapons:
ASPIDE medium-range semi-active radar-guided missile
AIM-9L Sidewinder, all-aspect short-range IR missile
Advanced ECM/ECCM systems to improve survivability in contested environments
Fully modernized digital twin-seat cockpit with HOTAS architecture
Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD) for both pilot and instructor/weapons systems operator
Secondary air-to-ground capability with conventional and precision-guided munitions
Operational Role
Within the 6th Wing, the TA-4E-ASA-M is employed in a wide range of operational and training scenarios, including:
Advanced air-to-air training and operational conversion for interceptor pilots
Point air defense and short- to medium-range interception
Aggressor and DACT roles during NATO exercises
Armed escort and tactical air patrol missions
The presence of a second crew member significantly enhances mission effectiveness, allowing optimized management of radar, datalink, and missile employment during complex intercept profiles.

Controls:

AG1: Jettison fuel tank
AG7: Extend tail hook
AG8: Lights
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Elevator Trim