AERO Vodochody Successfully Completes Basic Weapons Testing for L-39NG Jet Aircraft

In a series of tests, the new L-39NG jet aircraft from AERO achieved successful results in testing the use of weapons. Engineers and pilots conducted tests involving the firing of 230 missiles and the dropping of nearly 70 bombs to evaluate engine effects, emergency load shedding, and accuracy. AERO accomplished the primary weapons tests for the L-39NG aircraft, which is one among many tests the aircraft has undergone. The L-39NG is capable of carrying both Eastern and Western weapon systems, along with the corresponding avionics system.

The testing phase for Eastern armament took place in Hungary, utilizing the Pápa air base and the missile range near Veszprem. The weapons trials were divided into three phases, starting with the assessment of missile firing’s impact on engine performance, followed by emergency load drops, and concluding with bombing and missile firing for accuracy. All weapons tests met expectations. S-5 missiles were fired from UB-16 missile blocks to examine their effect on engine operation. Tests were also conducted for emergency bomb drops, overhead fuel tanks, and missile blocks. Throughout the testing, a total of 230 S-5 missiles were fired, accompanied by 42 P-50-75 and 24 OFAB-100-120 bombs being dropped.

Petr Jinda, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer at AERO, expressed satisfaction with the test results. He mentioned that the tests covered the basic weapons that the L-39NG can utilize, but further weapon options can be considered based on specific customer requirements. The aircraft’s measurement system recorded approximately 300 flight parameters, and video recordings, including those from the pilot’s heads-up display (HUD), were used for evaluation. Multiple cameras installed on the aircraft captured the tests from various angles, while drones with cameras were employed to assess the impact of the weapons in the target area. All recordings and measurements were precisely synchronized for comprehensive analysis.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s., the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic, has a rich history in the development, production, maintenance, and improvement of civil and military aircraft. With a focus on military trainer and light combat aircraft, AERO has established itself as a leader in the global jet trainer market. Additionally, AERO collaborates with major aircraft manufacturers on various projects in the civil aviation sector, contributing to the manufacture, assembly, and development of aircraft assemblies within risk-sharing programs.