As previously reported, Armenia has purchased L-39 Skyfox aircraft from the Czech Republic.
Axar.az reports that the specifications of the aircraft, which will be added to the Armenian Air Force inventory, have attracted attention.
Manufactured by Czech company Aero Vodochody, the L-39 Skyfox is a new-generation, two-seat subsonic jet trainer and light combat aircraft. It is a modernised version of the legendary L-39 Albatros, redesigned with modern technologies.
Key technical specifications:
- Crew: 2 (instructor and trainee)
- Engine: 1 Williams International FJ44-4M turbofan engine (3,800 lbf / 16.89 kN)
- Empty weight: approximately 3,100–3,280 kg
- Maximum take-off weight: 5,600–5,800 kg
- Maximum speed: approximately 420 knots (780 km/h)
- Range: up to 1,400 nautical miles
- Endurance: up to 4.5 hours
- Maximum altitude: 38,000 feet (approximately 11,500 metres)
Design and capabilities:
- Avionics: Equipped with a modern digital Genesys IDU 680 cockpit system, synthetic vision and backup instrument systems. It features an integrated training system designed to effectively prepare pilots to fly fourth- and fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
- Armament and payload: Has five external hardpoints. It can carry practice bombs, unguided rockets, laser-guided munitions, as well as reconnaissance and electronic warfare pods.
- Configurations: Can be adapted for pilot training, aerial reconnaissance using EO/IR sensors, and light attack and combat missions.
Countries including Vietnam, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Angola have ordered or acquired the aircraft.