Kecskemét, Hungary – 30 May 2025 – AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE handed over the first three Aero L-39 Skyfox advanced trainer aircraft to the Hungarian Air Force today. The ceremony took place at Kecskemét Air Base and was attended by representatives of the Hungarian Defence Forces and Aero representatives.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the life of the Hungarian Defence Forces, and more specifically, in the development of the Hungarian Air Force. The arrival of the first L-39NG Skyfox jet training aircraft not only means a new level in our combat flying capabilities but also reflects the decisive, dynamic and purposeful military development programme that we have launched and continue to carry through with consistency. As part of this advancement, we have established a state-of-the-art simulation centre – this facility will be unique in Hungary and even in our region. The latest training system and the L-39NG Skyfox aircraft will be integrated into the NATO Flight Training Europe programme, thereby strengthening the Alliance as well” said Zsolt Kutnyánszky, State Secretary for Force Development and Defence Policy.
Viktor Sotona, President and Chairman of the Board of Aero, added: “I am very pleased to be present during this important event, when the first three L-39 Skyfox aircraft become part of the Hungarian Air Force. Hungary is a respected member of NATO and places high demands on the capabilities of its armed forces, and in particular on the training of its fighter pilots. We are therefore very pleased that the L-39 Skyfox has been selected as the training platform for the next generation of Hungarian fighter pilots. Today’s handover marks the culmination of our joint efforts and, at the same time, opens a new chapter and a long-term partnership. We look forward to further cooperation with the Hungarian Defence Forces.”
The Aero L-39 Skyfox aircraft are part of a comprehensive training system that includes simulators, ground support systems and operational support in addition to the aircraft themselves. To date, three Hungarian instructor pilots and sixteen technicians have successfully completed training with Aero. The pilots have conducted nearly 100 training flights, including night flights and formation flights.
Aero remains at Kecskemét base through its team of engineers and specialists, who will provide support during the induction of the aircraft into service.
The handover of the aircraft is part of a contract signed on April 17, 2022, which includes a total of 12 L-39 Skyfox aircraft, eight in training and four in reconnaissance configuration. The contract also includes the delivery of ground equipment, simulators, and a training program.
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of civil and military aircraft and is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers in the world. In the field of its own aircraft, Aero is a permanent partner of a number of military air forces and has a strong position in the market for military trainers and light combat aircraft. With 11,000 aircraft produced in its 100 years of existence, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in service with dozens of military operators and a number of demo teams, and especially with its new L-39NG aircraft, Aero has established itself as a leader in the global jet trainer market. In the civil aviation sector, Aero works with major aircraft manufacturers on a wide range of projects and is a partner in several risk-sharing programs, where it is responsible not only for the manufacture and assembly of aircraft, but also for their development.
