Aero Vodochody’s L-159T2X Prototype Completes First Flight

Czech company Aero Vodochody has announced the first flight of L-159T2X prototype, an upgraded L-159, four years after it started working on the aircraft.

Last week, after four years of intensive work, the prototype (demonstrator) L-159 T2X took off from the airport in Vodochody. It is an aircraft on which engineers are testing new avionic systems and key design elements, the company said in a release.

The L-159 aircraft produced by Aero Vodochody is currently used by the Czech and Iraqi armies. Recently, Draken Europe has started using the Czech aircraft for training purposes. Aero continues to upgrade key elements of the aircraft, which is known as the Honey Badger among its users for its endurance, durability and combat capabilities. In total, Aero has produced 86 L-159s in various configurations (including conversions) to date.

"We have developed a new wing and an integral tank that increases the range, especially for two-seat configurations. It will also allow us to increase the number of usable wing pylons. We also plan to integrate completely redesigned avionics and precision weapons technology against ground targets. With the upgrade, we want to ensure long-term and efficient use of the aircraft for our customers," says Milos Trnobransky, chief designer of the L-39, L-59 and L-159 aircraft at Aero.

Among the advantages of the L-159 compared to its competitors are its low operating costs and ease of maintenance in daily operation. The aircraft is thus a platform for advanced and combat pilot training for fourth and emerging fifth generation fighter aircraft. The aircraft has the capability to operate against drones, thanks to the on-board radar.

This is also why it was chosen by Draken Europe, which signed a cooperation agreement with Aero earlier this year in Farnborough. Draken Europe will use the L-159 as an aggressor aircraft in the training of RAF fighter pilots, including the F-35 jet fighter.