| L-39 Skyfox | |
|---|---|
| |
| Role | Advanced jet trainer Light combat aircraft |
| National origin | Czech Republic |
| Manufacturer | Aero Vodochody |
| First flight | 14 September 2015 (L-39CW) 22 December 2018 (L-39NG) |
| Status | In service |
| Primary users | Vietnam People's Air Force Hungarian Air Force Flight Training Center Pardubice |
| Produced | 2015 - 2024 (developmental)
2024 - present (serial) |
| Number built | ~ 12 (2024) |
| Developed from | Aero L-39 Albatros |
The Aero L-39 Skyfox,[1] also known as Aero L-39NG ("Next Generation"), is a turbofan-powered military trainer and light combat aircraft developed and produced by the Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody. It is a successor of the Cold War era Aero L-39 Albatros.
During July 2014, Aero Vodochody announced the launch of the L-39NG programme. By April 2015, the company revealed a partnership between itself, Draken International and Williams International to jointly work on the project - the latter provides its FJ44-4M turbofan engine for the aircraft, while Draken shall be responsible to the type on the North American market, as well as operate its own fleet. On 14 September 2015, the maiden flight of the L-39NG technology demonstrator (L-39CW) was performed. On 14 March 2018, type certification of the L-39CW was received. On 22 December 2018, the first L-39NG prototype conducted its first flight. In September 2020, the Czech defence ministry certificated the L-39NG using supranational military standards. In October 2024, as the company reached serial production, the type was officially named as Skyfox.
The L-39NG project has been divided into two distinct stages, or versions. The Stage 1 programme is an upgrade that is available to existing L-39 operators; the original airframes are retrofitted with a new engine and (optionally) modern avionics. The Stage 2 programme involves the production of new-build aircraft; these benefit from several design improvements, such as the use of a wet wing, eliminating the original L-39's distinctive wingtip fuel tanks.[2] During September 2020, the Czech defence ministry certificated the L39NG in accordance with supranational military standards.[3] Numerous civil and military customers have placed orders for the L-39NG, including a dedicated reconnaissance variant.