In parallel with the support and maintenance of the existing L-159 aircraft, Aero has been continuously working on upgrading its capabilities, with the main goal of providing an aircraft that will meet the demanding requirements of 5th generation combat pilot training. Last week, after four years of intensive work, the prototype (demonstrator) L-159 T2X took off from the airport in Vodochody. It is an aircraft on which engineers are testing new avionic systems and key design elements. The L-159 aircraft produced by Aero Vodochody is currently used by the Czech and Iraqi armies. Recently, Draken Europe has started using the Czech aircraft for training purposes. Aero continues to upgrade key elements of the aircraft, which is known as the Honey Badger among its users for its endurance, durability and combat capabilities. In total, Aero has produced 86 L-159s in various configurations (including conversions) to date.
Among the advantages of the L-159 compared to its competitors are its low operating costs and ease of maintenance in daily operation. The aircraft is thus an excellent platform for advanced and combat pilot training for fourth and emerging fifth generation fighter aircraft. The capability to operate efficiently and cost-effectively against drones, thanks to the powerful on-board radar, is proving to be a significant asset today. This is also why it was chosen by Draken Europe, which signed a cooperation agreement with Aero earlier this year in Farnborough. Draken Europe will use the L-159 as an aggressor aircraft in the training of RAF fighter pilots, including the F-35 jet fighter.
After four years of development, the prototype, named L-159 T2X, once again roared over the company’s premises. Aero is testing upgraded features on this airplane. We have developed a new wing and an integral tank that increases the range, especially for two-seat configurations. It will also allow us to increase the number of usable wing pylons. We also plan to integrate completely redesigned avionics and precision weapons technology against ground targets. With the upgrade, we want to ensure long-term and efficient use of the aircraft for our customers,” says Milos Trnobransky, chief designer of the L-39, L-59 and L-159 aircraft at Aero.
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design, manufacture, maintenance, overhaul and upgrade of military and civil aircraft. It is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and with history dating back to 1919, Aero is one of the oldest aerospace companies in the world. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world’s air forces and continues to maintain a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft. With a track record of 11,000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a broad coverage of dozens of military operators and demo teams, 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. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with many of the world’s largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.
