AERO VODOCHODY HAS finally secured a launch order for its L-159 light-attack aircraft, with the Czech Government committing to purchasing 72 aircraft for its air force.
The Government gave the go-ahead for production on 11 April following the conclusion of a development agreement, says Aero Vodochody vice-president for research and development, Viktor Kucera.
The defence ministry is to cover about 25% of the cost of developing the aircraft. The rest will come from the Czech banks, which are Aero Vodochody's principal shareholders, and the foreign companies participating in the programme.
The foreign companies with a financial stake in the programme include Rockwell International, the principal avionics partner, and AlliedSignal/ITEC, which is providing the 28kN (6,300lb)-thrust F124-GA-100 power plant.
The cost of the development of the single-seat version of the aircraft is estimated to be CKr1.4 billion ($52 million). The aircraft are expected to sell for about $6 million each.
About 10% of the initial production will be two-seat versions to be used as lead-in trainers with operational capability. Deliveries to the Czech air force are to begin in 1998, and the company is also hoping to export the aircraft..
Source: Flight International