After several delays, the ADAS Defence and Security Event was held in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. As one of the main exhibitors, AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. (Aero) presented its flagship product, the L-39NG. This aircraft fits exactly into the training concept of the Philippine Air Force, which is currently undergoing extensive modernization. With a track record of 11,000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a significant existing fleet of L-39 Albatrosses and with a brand new aircraft, the L-39NG, Aero is maintaining its positioning as a leader in the jet training market.
The Philippine Air Force is currently looking for a replacement for the outdated S-211s, which are primarily used to train fighter pilots. The L-39NG concept offers the Philippine Air Force several advantages. Among its greatest strengths are the comprehensive training system which includes the L-39NG aircraft, pilot and ground staff training, simulation solutions, advanced maintenance concept and weapon systems,” said Viktor Sotona, CEO and President of the company.
With the support of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila, several important business meetings took place during the event. Aero representatives held meetings with the Philippines Secretary of National Defense, Mr. Delfin N. Lorenzana, the National Security Adviser, Mr. Hermognes C. Esperon, the Secretary of the Department of Transportation, Mr. Arthur P. Tugade and the Air Force Chief, Major General Connor A. Canlas.
The Aero L-39NG (“Next Generation”) is a Czech turbofan-powered military trainer and light combat aircraft currently under development by Aero Vodochody. It is a successor of the Cold War era Aero L-39 Albatros. The aircraft is being developed in two versions (stages). While the L-39NG Stage 1 is an upgrade of original L-39 airframes with a new engine and avionics, the Stage 2 are newly built aircraft with several design improvements such as a wet wing without the type’s distinctive wingtip fuel tanks.[1] Serial production should have begun in 2019.
