Czechs Boost Light Combat Jet Here

Not an L159B -- but two seat L159A/B hybrid represents the latest model.

The latest light combat and training aircraft from the Czech Aero Vodochody family is taking aim at Central and South America.

The NATO-compatible two-seat L159B is due to fly this summer as the Czech air force continues to take delivery of single-seat L159As. Some 72 are on order, but the last few might be delivered as two-seaters.

Dubbed ALCA--for advanced light combat aircraft--the L159 features a Honeywell military F124-GA-100 turbofan engine, and state of the art avionics integrated by Boeing. The fighter type cockpit instrumentation is based on head up and color multifunction displays as well as HOTAS (hands on throttle and stick). The new aircraft also features comprehensive data and video recording systems allowing extensive mission debriefing and rehearsal.

Aero Vodochody offers a basic low flyaway price of $8.5 million, which it says it can achieve thanks to low Czech labor rates and the experience of manufacturing 2,900 of the L159's predecessors, the L-39 and L-59.

This guaranteed price, according to Aero Vodochody, cannot be matched by any of the L159's competitors, such as the BAE Hawk.

The L159, however, is a new aircraft even though it retains the look and uses a few aerodynamic components of its family line.

Boeing owns a 35% stake in Aero Vodochody through its Czech subsidiary, Boeing Ceska. As such, the L159 has the support of the world's largest aerospace company, Aero Vodochody points out. It is here at FIDAE 2002 in Hall C, Booth 141.