Czech President flies the L-39 Skyfox
The L-39 Skyfox (previously known as the L-39NG) is available as a Stage 1 upgrade for existing L-39 operators adding the new engine and (optionally) modern avionics to the original airframe, or as new-build Stage 2 aircraft. The Stage 2 aircraft embody several design improvements, including a wet wing, eliminating the original L-39’s distinctive wingtip fuel tanks. The new airframe is considerably lighter and produces less drag. The aircraft is available with two different cockpit/avionics standards – the L-39NG.A1 with ‘Eastern’ avionics and instruments, and the NATO standard L-39NG.T1.
Aero Vodochody says that it has secured orders for 34 next-generation L-39 aircraft for customers across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America, though our estimate is that there have been export orders for 36 new build ‘Stage 2’ aircraft (12 each for Vietnam, Hungary, and RSW aviation) plus 12 Stage 1 upgrades, in addition to the four new build aircraft ordered by LOM Praha.
LOM Praha, a Czech state-owned enterprise, became the first customer for the L-39NG Stage 1 ordering four of the type for use at its Flight Training Center at Pardubice Airport in June 2015. In the event, LOM Praha signed an agreement for the delivery of four new-build Stage 2 L-39NGs in 2022, and started the official process of accepting the L-39 Skyfox on 13 January 2025. The aircraft are replacing a fleet of ageing L-39C used for Czech Air Force training.
On 6 March 2025, Aero Vodochody announced that it had completed the delivery of 12 L-39 Skyfox jet trainer aircraft to the Vietnamese Air Force, fulfilling the contract signed in February 2021. The 12 aircraft were delivered in two batches of six L-39s.
Hungary ordered eight L-39NG trainers and four reconnaissance-configured L-39NG aircraft in April 2022. Draken International has signed an agreement for up to six of the L-39s of Draken’s L-39s to receive the L-39NG upgrade, while US contractor RSW Aviation has also placed an order for 12 L-39NGs and for six upgrades of existing L-39s.
After his flight, Pavel said that: “Aero Vodochody manufactures aircraft that can be found all over the world and have been a pillar of fighter pilot training for over 100 years. I had the opportunity to unveil the latest L-39 Skyfox aircraft, which recently expanded the Czech Army’s training fleet, in October last year, and even experience it in action today. Their machines are one of many examples of the Czech Republic creating cutting-edge and modern technologies that can compete with foreign production. In this case, supporting innovation and domestic industry is essential not only for our economy, but also for security.”
