Malaysia today inked a deal to buy eight Alenia Aermacchi MB 339CM jet trainer aircraft for RM410 million (US$114 million), a deal which should also provide new landing rights for national carrier Malaysia Airlines in Italy.

Malaysia's defence ministry said the aircraft will be used to train pilots who will subsequently fly US-made F/A-18D aircraft and Russian Sukhoi 30s.

It said the aircraft will be delivered in stages from February 2008.

The purchase will also speed up Malaysia's request for additonal landing rights for MAS to Rome and Milan in Italy, a statement said.