Aero Vodochody has begun production of new components for its L-39NG multi-role, advanced jet trainer aircraft.
The L-39NG has been designed as a unified, comprehensive training system to instruct future pilots of fourth and fifth generation aircraft for modern air forces, according to Aero Vodochody.
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During this production phase, the company intends to produce a total of four L-39NGs, comprising three prototypes and one pre-serial aircraft.
Of the three prototypes, one will be used as a flight prototype, and the other two are designed for structural and fatigue tests.
The pre-serial aircraft will be delivered to the first customer, Aero Vodochody stated.
The first complete L-39NG aircraft with a new certification is expected to be ready by the end of 2019, with the first deliveries taking place from 2020.
Aero Vodochody president Giuseppe Giordo said: “All around the world, there are still about 60 users of the L-39 aircraft and approximately 600 of L-39s are still in operation.
“These older aircraft will need to be gradually replaced by the new ones, so we believe the new generation of L-39 has a great potential to succeed in the market.”
The L-39NG version of the L-39 Albatros features modern avionics, newly developed engine from Williams International and many other enhancements.
More than 800 new parts of L-39NG are currently in the production phase, while another 800 components are taken from the original Albatros.
Image: The first complete L-39NG aircraft with a new certification should be ready at the end of 2019. Photo: courtesy of Aero Vodochody.
