Encyclopedia - Aermacchi AM-3 Bosbok

The Aermacchi AM-3 was designed to fulfill the requirement for a new observation/reconnaissance aircraft to replace the Cessna L-19 aircraft serving with the Italian Army. Designed as a joint venture by Aerfer Industrie Aerospaciali Meridionali SpA of Turin and Aermacchi of Varese, the first prototype built by Macchi flew on 12 May 1967 and the second prototype by Aerfer flew on 22 August 1968.

Although the AM-3 lost out to the SIAI-Marchetti SM.1019, South Africa ordered 40 AM-3C aircraft, the first aircraft delivered in May 1972. It was known as the Bosbok (Bush Buck) in SAAF service. Three aircraft were also ordered by Rwanda.

The Bosbok is a cantilever monoplane with fixed tailwheel undercarriage. The pilot and observer sit in tandem configuration, with space behind the observer for two stretchers or a third seat. The wings have two underwing pylons able to carry 170kg (375lb) of ordnance, comprising of either rockets, bombs or machine guns.

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