The Hungarian air forces have taken delivery of their first three L-39NG Skyfox aircraft on May 30, marking a important step in their pilot training modernization efforts. The jets will be based at the 101st squadron at the air force base in Kecskemét.

In 2022, Hungary placed an order for twelve L-39NG aircraft. Eight of these will be configured for reconnaissance missions.Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2028. Pilot training on the new platform will be integrated into the NATO Flight Training Europe (NATE) program.

The L-39NG, also known as Skyfox, is marketed by Aero as an advanced training system for pilots transitioning to fourth and fifth-generation fighter aircraft.The cockpit features two multifunction screens and a head-up display. The aircraft has a tandem seating arrangement and five external hardpoints for a payload of up to 1348 kilograms.

Advanced Technology and Capabilities

The L-39NG is powered by a Williams FJ44-4M engine from the USA, producing 16.89 kilonewtons of thrust, replacing the older Progress AI-25 engine. The aircraft is equipped with Martin-Baker (Mk. Cz16h) zero-zero ejection seats for both the pilot and instructor. The maximum takeoff weight is 5593 kilograms. The reconnaissance variant acquired by Hungary includes the MX-15 targeting pod with electro-optical and infrared sensors, supplied by L3harris Wescam of Canada.

The L-39NG, also known as Skyfox, is marketed by Aero as an advanced training system for pilots transitioning to fourth and fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Global Operators of the Skyfox

Besides Hungary, Vietnam and the Czech Republic have also selected the Skyfox. Aero completed the delivery of L-39NGs to Vietnam in March. The Czech Air Force training center in Pardubice received its first of four new trainers earlier this year. The L-39NG prototype first flew on December 22, 2018.