First Vietnam L-39NG in full livery

On 7 August 2023, Czech aircraft manufacturer AERO Vodochody presented the first Không quân Nhân dân Việt Nam (Vietnam People's Air Force) L-39NG in its full livery.

The L-39NG, with serial 2303, will soon be heading to its new owner. On 24 April 2023, AERO Vodochody has successfully flown the first series produced L-39NG. The aircraft, temporary serial 0517 (c/n 167005), flew 40 minutes and verified functions and behaviour in all flight phases. It is not known if this aircraft is the presented L-39NG Vietnam People's Air Force 2303.

In February 2021, the Ministry of Defence of Vietnam signed a contract for the delivery of twelve L-39NG jet trainers. The contract includes the training of pilots, instructors, ground crew and mechanics. Also included will be the supply of aircraft spare parts, as well as the supply of equipment for ground-based training, logistics support or specialized airport systems.

The L-39NGs will be delivered in the 2023-2024 timeframe. The fresh paint scheme looks very familiar with the Aero L-39C Albatros' training aircraft, which are operated by the 910th Aviation Training Regiment of the Air Force Officer School at Dong Tac Airport. The Vietnam People's Air Force has long operated the L-39C Albatros, one of the most prolific communist jet trainers.

Photo by AERO Vodochody (twitter @AERO_Vodochody)