According to reports, the relevant contracts have already gone into effect. According to current plans, the light jet aircraft, designed as advanced jet trainers, will be delivered in two versions by 2024. This should significantly improve the quality of pilot training while also creating a new reconnaissance version, according to Maróth, who added that pilot training was a vital component of the Hungarian Government's force development initiative (formerly known as Zrnyi 2026), which began in 2016.
Eight of the new planes will be specifically designated for this purpose. In addition to advanced training, the agile and relatively small aircraft are ideal for serving as operational trainers for JAS 39EBS HU pilots. The Hungarian GRIPEN fleet was only recently prepared for the future by opting for the MS20 Block II program and upgrading with the purchase of IRIS-T air-to-air missiles.
The remaining four L-39NGs represent true innovation in the current aircraft procurement. According to Maróth, these will be developed into a yet-to-be-specified reconnaissance version as part of a joint Hungarian-Czech research initiative and made available to air forces later.
Background on the L-39NG
The L-39NG is a two-seat, single-engine jet trainer and light attack aircraft developing the Aero L-39 ALBATROS. It is available in two versions.
