State-owned Czech aviation firm LOM PRAHA has tapped manufacturer AERO Vodochy to deliver four new L-39NG advanced military trainer aircraft to the country’s air force.
The contract, which includes an option for four more jets, also covers the delivery of special and high-altitude equipment, survival equipment, flight planning and analysis systems, and a ground training system.
The aircraft firm will also provide training for Czech Air Force pilots and ground personnel.
“The reason for the acquisition of the L-39NG is to ensure the continuity of the training of tactical air force pilots on subsonic machines in the training center of the state enterprise,” LOM PRAHA Director Jiří Protiva said.
“The existing L-39C Albatros, which have been operated by the LOM PRAHA Air Training Centre for eighteen years, are reaching the end of their technical life. The acquisition of new aircraft is also an expression of support and cooperation within the Czech defense industry.”
AERO Vodochy is expected to deliver the first trainer jet within 28 months upon contract implementation.
The contract for the delivery of new L-39NG jet aircraft for the LOM PRAHA s.p. has been signed. ✈ Thank you for your trust. We are excited about this cooperation! #lompraha #AeroVodochody #L39NG pic.twitter.com/GcAPQhQge5
— AERO Vodochody (@AERO_Vodochody) November 14, 2022
‘New-Generation Jet Trainer’
The 11.70-meter (38.39 feet) advanced military trainer aircraft is designed to enhance basic and advanced pilot combat training.
The new-generation jet trainer features a cost-effective FJ44-4M engine that allows a flying range of 1,150 nautical miles (2,130 kilometers/1,324 miles).
L-39NG is also equipped with a state-of-the-art flight control system featuring enhanced maneuvering and a digital fuel management system that boosts the aircraft’s service life to 15,000 flight hours.
While primarily aimed at serving the Czech Air Force, the four aircraft will also be used to train pilots of other countries in the NATO Flight Training Europe program.
“The L-39NG design reflects valuable input from our customers and is in accordance with the current and future needs of air forces around the world. It can also perform a variety of other missions including light combat, close air support, counterinsurgency and reconnaissance,” the aircraft manufacturer said.
