Algeria, a North African nation with a growing military presence, is exploring the acquisition of the L-39NG advanced jet trainer to replace its aging fleet of L-39 Albatross aircraft. The Czech-made L-39NG demonstrator arrived in Algeria this week to commence a series of test flights aimed at assessing its suitability for the Algerian Air Force’s training needs.
The Algerian Air Force has a long history with the L-39 Albatross, having operated 54 of these aircraft for over two decades. While the Albatross has served its purpose well, the L-39NG represents a significant upgrade in terms of technology and capabilities. The new aircraft features a modern glass cockpit, improved avionics, and a more powerful engine that offers increased range and endurance.
The latest developed subsonic jet aircraft, the L-39NG, a new generation of the legendary Albatros trainer, received type certification in 2022 without restrictions. Czech manufacturer AERO Vodochody can now sell it worldwide.
One of the key advantages of the L-39NG is its versatility. In addition to its primary role as a trainer, the aircraft can also be configured for ground attack missions. It is compatible with a range of weapons, including bombs, missiles, and gun pods, making it a valuable asset for both training and combat operations.
The aircraft is a direct successor to the L-39C, which has trained thousands of professional pilots. This jet is capable of fulfilling the role of a light attack aircraft and a single, comprehensive aircraft for full training of pilots of modern air forces. The L-39NG uses contemporary production technologies and modern equipment. The avionics of the aircraft is ready for training future pilots of fourth and fifth generation aircraft. The aircraft also includes a wide range of simulation technologies, including the upcoming integration into a highly advanced tactical simulation center to increase training effectiveness.
The L-39NG’s potential acquisition by Algeria would align with the country’s broader military modernization efforts. The aircraft could play a vital role in training future generations of Algerian fighter pilots, providing them with the skills and experience needed to operate advanced combat aircraft such as the **YAK-130**.
As the L-39NG demonstrator undergoes rigorous testing in Algeria, the Algerian Air Force will carefully evaluate its performance and capabilities to determine whether it meets their specific requirements. A decision on whether to proceed with the procurement is expected to be made in the coming months.
Meanwhile, in another north African nation -Tunisia, Czech’s Aero Vodochody and United States Textron, is competing for the contract to replace twelve Aero Vodochody L-59T Super Albatros advanced trainer and light attack aircraft is approaching the end of its service life by the year 2024.
Also, Ghana’s intention to buy six L-39NG Albatros light attack and trainer aircraft from Czech Aero vodochody has stalled due to funding constraints.
Ghana’s defence minster on 2 August, two years ago sought parliamentary approval for the procurement of six L-39NG aircraft, in a deal that is reportedly worth EUR111 million ($132 million) and which covers associated products and services and a ground-based training system as well as the six aircraft.
The acquisition was reviewed and approved by Ghana’s parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee on 17 December 2021.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is considering acquiring the new L-39NG advanced trainer and light attack aircraft from the Czech Republic, according to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
In a publication titled; the Chief of Air Staff Memo to Airmen, the CAS revealed that he had discussed the possibility of continuing upgrading the NAF’s existing fleet of L-39ZA Albatros aircraft and acquiring the new L-39NG aircraft with the Czech Chief of the Air Staff during a visit to Prague in September 2023.