The new jet trainers will be used to prepare Czech Air Force pilots for fifth-generation fighter aircraft, including the F-35. The L-39 Skyfox is designed to meet the demands of modern air forces, with advanced avionics, composite materials, and integrated fuel tanks that enhance efficiency and reduce operating costs.
LOM PRAHA’s Flight Training Centre in Pardubice, which has been operating for over 20 years, will oversee the training programme. To support the transition, the centre has invested in infrastructure and technology, including a Full Mission Simulator developed by LOM PRAHA’s subsidiary, VR Group.
Pilot training with the L-39 Skyfox is set to commence in April 2025. The new training system will significantly improve pilot preparation, integrating virtual training capabilities that simulate complex combat scenarios within the aircraft cockpit.
The initial contract includes four L-39 Skyfox aircraft, with the option for LOM PRAHA to acquire an additional four. The remaining aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2025, ensuring a seamless transition to the new training system.
The L-39 Skyfox is praised for its agility, modern avionics, and suitability for advanced pilot instruction. Instructor pilots at CLV Pardubice have highlighted the aircraft’s rapid response, superior handling at high altitudes, and improved cockpit ergonomics.
Aero Vodochody has a long-standing presence in the global aerospace industry, having produced over 11,000 aircraft in its 100-year history. The company is a key supplier of military training and light combat aircraft, with its L-39 Albatros trainers in operation worldwide.
The Czech aviation sector benefits from strong local collaboration, with around 600 subcontractors involved in the L-39 Skyfox programme, 400 of whom are based in the Czech Republic. This project underscores the continued development of the country’s aerospace capabilities.
LOM PRAHA, a leading maintenance provider for Mi-series helicopters and other defence aviation projects, continues to expand its role in strategic military programmes. The integration of the L-39 Skyfox into its training fleet marks a significant step in preparing the next generation of Czech Air Force pilots.
