Thai–Czech Defense Collaboration on-track, RTAF interested on L-39NG

The Aero Vodochody L-39NG (New Generation) which was launched late last year, and is being marketed for export market, especially for current L-39 users like Thailand. Photo c/o Radio.cz.

The defense ministries of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Czech Republic agreed to set-up a collaborative working group looking at joint projects that can be undertaken by both countries in the defense sector, with emphasis on the aerospace industries, HIS Jane’s reported last 18 January 2019.

Among the possible ventures that both countries are eyeing are investments in putting up an aerospace plant, and a facility for maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft, as well as a flight simulator facility.

Improvements in research and development, technology transfer and other collaboration are being looked upon as well.

Last 10 November 2018, Aero Vodochody announced that Thailand has shown interest in acquiring an undisclosed number of L-39NG trainer jet aircraft for the Royal Thai Air Force which is the latest version of the L-39 Albatross family developed by Aero Vodochody first introduced in 1972. Improvements were made on the design with updated avionics and engines, improved airframe and better construction methods resulting to less weight, better performance, and longer airframe life.

The Royal Thai Air Force currently uses the L-39ZA, with Israeli avionics and used for light attack requirements.

Aside from Thailand, last November 2018 MaxDefense Philippines reported that the Philippine Air Force is also interested in the Aero Vodochody L-39NG as a possible replacement for its SIAI Marchetti S.211 basic jet trainers.



[1] IHS Jane’s
[2] IHS Jane’s
[3] Aero Vodochody
[4] MaxDefense Philippines