Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody has secured new orders for its L-39 SkyFox jet trainer from customers in Angola and North America, expanding the aircraft's footprint beyond its existing operators in Europe and Asia.
The company said the agreements cover aircraft already in production and will keep its assembly line occupied through the second quarter of 2027. While Aero did not disclose the identity of the North American customer or the exact number of aircraft involved, it confirmed the operator comes from the civil sector and already has experience with older L-39 aircraft.
In Angola, Aero signed a contract for up to four SkyFox jets for the Angolan Air Force. The package also includes support services and training-related equipment.
The order is particularly notable because Angola already operates earlier versions of the L-39. According to Aero, the customer initially explored overhauling its existing L-39 Albatros fleet before deciding to acquire new-build aircraft instead.
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The L-39 traces its origins to the Cold War era, when the original L-39 Albatros became one of the most widely used jet trainers in the world. More than 2,800 examples were produced and exported to dozens of countries, including several African operators.
The modern SkyFox version retains the basic training role but incorporates a new Williams FJ44 engine, digital avionics, modern cockpit displays and systems intended to prepare pilots for fourth- and fifth-generation combat aircraft.
The North American agreement appears to target the civilian market rather than a military operator. Aero said the partnership also includes commercial representation of the SkyFox in the region, suggesting the aircraft could be used as a demonstration platform to support future sales campaigns.
Several civilian organizations in North America already operate former military L-39 aircraft. Among them is Draken International, which previously reached an agreement with Aero involving upgrades for part of its L-39 fleet, while other operators have acquired L-39NG-family aircraft for training and support activities.
The company said it has secured orders for nine SkyFox aircraft in recent months, including two covered by options, while also completing four additional aircraft for another undisclosed customer.
