The Hungarian air force is set to take delivery of the first of a dozen L-39 Skyfox light jets following the completion of pilot training in late May with the Czech manufacturer Aero Vodochody. Under a contract signed in April 2022, Hungary ordered eight aircraft configured as jet trainers and another four fitted out for reconnaissance roles, with deliveries initially expected in 2024.
According to Aero Vodochody, the flight crew training began with theoretical instruction and exercises involving the two-seater’s rescue equipment. This was followed by type training for instructor qualification, which then progressed to night flying and operations with the L-39’s training and tactical system, developed for fourth- and fifth-generation pilot training.
Certified to European Union and NATO standards, the L-39 can also be used in light combat roles with up to five hard points available for munitions. Beyond the Western military market, customers also include the Czech air force. The Skyfox model, based on the original L-39 Albatros, has also had export success with Vietnam’s air force. It is powered by a Williams International FJ-44-4M engine and features a Genesys Aerosystems avionics suite and glass cockpit.
Aero Vodochody is an aerostructures production partner for airframers including Airbus, Embraer, Leonardo, and LET Aircraft Industries.