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MILITARY AFRICA
The L-39NG, the modern successor to the legendary L-39 Albatros, is an ideal solution for Egypt and other African countries to modernize their training programs.
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, a leading Czech aircraft manufacturer, is targeting the African continent with its new Aero L-39NG aircraft.
Aero has been operating in Africa for a long time and has extensive experience there. After the successful delivery of the first six Aero L-39NG aircraft to the Vietnamese Air Force and the upcoming delivery of the first units to the domestic company LOM PRAHA, Aero is now focusing on African customers.
The company is actively participating in the prestigious Egypt Airshow with the L-39NG, where it intends to present its modern and versatile aircraft to a wide international audience.
Viktor Sotona, Chairman of the Board and President of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE, explained the reasons for this move: “Egypt is a strategically located country with an important role in regional security and defense. We have historical ties with Egypt going back to the 1960s when Egypt was a user of several generations of our aircraft. Today’s growing demand for modern trainer aircraft and Egypt’s ambition to remain a leader in the region make our continued cooperation ideal.”
The L-39NG, the modern successor to the legendary L-39 Albatros, is an ideal solution for Egypt and other African countries to modernize their training programs.
With its versatility and cost-effectiveness, the L-39NG has quickly become an attractive option for countries seeking modern trainer aircraft. “The L-39NG is the only advanced trainer that can offer both Western and Eastern avionics platforms, allowing for easy transition between these systems,” said Filip Kulštrunk, Executive Vice President, of Aero.
The L-39NG fulfills several key roles. Primarily serving as an advanced trainer, it is also capable of light combat roles against ground and air targets, including close air support. With its flexibility and ability to carry a variety of weapon systems, including guided and unguided bombs, missiles, and machine guns, the L-39NG is able to respond effectively to a wide range of operational needs. In addition, the aircraft is capable of operating for up to four hours, making it ideal for ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) missions such as border and coastal patrols and also aerobatics.
Aero Vodochody plans to work closely with the Egyptian Air Force to implement pilot training programs. The company offers L-39NG aircraft as the backbone of Egypt’s training programs and seeks to support the development of a robust and modernized training program for Egyptian pilots at minimum costs. “We are also considering the possibility of establishing a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center directly in Egypt. This center would not only support the L-39NG fleet but also enhance local capabilities and provide faster and more efficient services to our customers in the region,” added Viktor Sotona.
Aero Vodochody offers solutions tailored to the specific operational and environmental needs of Egypt and other African countries, including avionics customization and munitions compatibility. The L-39NG is an ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) unencumbered aircraft, allowing for unrestricted global operations and a simplified aircraft procurement process. The aircraft also supports both Eastern and Western weapon systems, facilitating the transition from Eastern to Western weapons.
Filip Kulštrunk emphasizes that the L-39NG perfectly meets Egypt’s requirements for a modern and cost-effective trainer aircraft. The L-39NG platform enables the transition to modern fourth and fifth-generation fighters such as the F-16, MiG-29, or Rafale. The L-39NG offers a cutting-edge hybrid training solution that reduces overall training time and cost. The L-39NG stands out for its combination of advanced technology, cost efficiency, and operational versatility. Aero Vodochody is ready to support users at the local level and, based on previous experience, offer the local industry to build a hub and MRO base.
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE thus sees Egypt and the African continent as an important opportunity for further development and strengthening of cooperation in this area, where it has historical experience and long-standing cooperation. In doing so, the L-39NG is a key product that combines modern technology with historically proven reliability to offer unparalleled value to its users.
L-39NG Prospects in Africa
Aero’s L-39 Albatross has enjoyed export success in Africa, several African countries already operate the aircaft such as Nigeria, Algeria, Angola, Central African Republic, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Libya, Mali, South Sudan, Tunisia, Uganda.
Meanwhile, Algeria, a North African nation with a growing military presence, is exploring the acquisition of the L-39NG advanced jet trainer to replace its aging fleet of L-39 Albatross aircraft. The Czech-mad L-39NG demonstrator arrived in Algeria this week to commence a series of test flights aimed at assessing its suitability for the Algerian Air Force’s training needs.
The Algerian Air Force has a long history with the L-39 Albatross, having operated 54 of these aircraft for over two decades. While the Albatross has served its purpose well, the L-39NG represents a significant upgrade in terms of technology and capabilities.
Similarly, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is considering acquiring the new L-39NG advanced trainer and light attack aircraft from the Czech Republic, according to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
Furthermore, Ghana’s intention to buy six L-39NG Albatros light attack and trainer aircraft from Czech Aero vodochody has stalled due to funding constraints.
Ghana’s defence minster on 2 August, two years ago sought parliamentary approval for the procurement of six L-39NG aircraft, in a deal that is reportedly worth EUR111 million ($132 million) and which covers associated products and services and a ground-based training system as well as the six aircraft.
The acquisition was reviewed and approved by Ghana’s parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee on 17 December 2021.