Czech Air Force gets new training aircraft

AERO Vodochody Aerospace has delivered three upgraded L-159 T2 aircraft to the Czech Air Force for advanced pilot training and military operations.

The two-seat L-159T2 aircraft have been upgraded to meet the requirements of the Czech Air Force. They will replace the L-39ZA aircraft currently serving at 21st Tactical Air Force Base in Čáslav, which end their service this year.

The improvements include new cockpit, fuel system and refuelling systems. They have also been made NVG-compatible, and fitted with upgraded VS-20 ejection seats; as well as the Grifo radar and new self-protection systems, including countermeasures and radar warning receiver.

The Czech Air Force ordered three L-159T2 in 2016. The order also includes delivery of ground equipment, software, and spare parts, as well as training of ground and flight personnel.

The two-seat L-159 is a derivate of the single-seat L-159, primarily designed for advanced and operational/lead-in fighter training. The L-159 configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of basic training as well as combat missions including air-to-ground, patrol and reconnaissance missions.