Aero Vodochody eyes pilot training potential with Egyptian Air Force
L-39NG producer Aero Vodochody intends to work “closely with the Egyptian Air Force to implement pilot training programmes,” the Czech manufacturer has announced on the first day of the inaugural Egypt International Airshow.
With Aero Vodochody believing its L-39NG military trainer and light combat aircraft to be “an ideal solution for Egypt and other African countries to modernise their training programmes,” its presence in at the Egyptian International Airshow is intended to “present its modern and versatile aircraft to a wide international audience”.
“Egypt is a strategically located country with an important role in regional security and defence,” explained Viktor Sotona, chairman of the board and president of Aero Vodochody Aerospace. “Today’s growing demand for modern trainer aircraft and Egypt’s ambition to remain a leader in the region make our continued cooperation ideal”.
Executive vice president Filip Kulštrunk added that the L-39NG “is the only advanced trainer that can offer both Western and Eastern avionics platforms, allowing for easy transition between these systems”. Following delivery of the first six units to the Vietnamese Air Force (and the upcoming delivery of the first aircraft to domestic company Lom Praha), the platform’s potential as a trainer with the Egyptian Air Force “seeks to support the development of a robust and modernized training programme for Egyptian pilots at minimum costs”.
Soton added that his company is also considering the possibility of establishing a MRO centre in Egypt. “This center would not only support the L-39NG fleet but also enhance local capabilities and provide faster and more efficient services to our customers in the region,” he commented.
