L-39NG test programme continues

AERO Vodochody has begun testing the second L-39NG prototype at the Czech Aerospace Research Centre in Prague.

Static tests, verifying strength of the airframe are underway on the prototype as part of the L-39NG development programme. The airframe will begin flight testing in September.

The first L-39NG prototype, which flew in December 2018, is currently undergoing ground vibration testing, and the third and fourth airframes will join the test programme by the end of the year. The L-39NG Technological Demonstrator, which is L-39CW now upgraded by additional new L-39NG components, has passed more than 40 test flights as part of L-39NG development.

AERO Vodochody has opted to omit the certification of the L-39NG in basic training configuration and head straight towards certification of the full trainer configuration in the third quarter of 2020. This new certification schedule is in line with the initial plan to start deliveries of the first serial production aircraft to customers in 2020 in the full trainer configuration.

The L-39NG aircraft is designed to provide unified, comprehensive 4th and 5th generation aircraft training for modern air forces. Powered by the FJ44-4M engine and equipped with advanced avionics, the L-39NG is equipped with five hard-points for weapons.