Aero Vodochody plans to launch the development of a new version of its L-159 subsonic light combat aircraft aimed at securing business in eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Key elements of the development would include replacing the aircraft’s Honeywell F124 engine with an updated L-39 engine to be sourced from Ukrainian industry. A suitable engine for the new L-159 variant is already being tested in Ukraine, says Aero Vodochody president Petr Klimes. The version would also feature new avionics, likely to be supplied by companies from European Union member states, he says. Klimes says the proposed development would be roughly 10% cheaper than the current L-159.
Source: Flight International
