Vietnam has inked an order for the supply of 12 L-39NG with OMNIPOL, marking one of the largest Czech defence contracts in recent times.

Aero Vodochody AEROSPACE will deliver the aircraft to the Vietnamese People’s Air Force (VPAF) over the course of 2023-24.

Vietnam has also contracted OMNIPOL for the training of pilots, instructors, ground crew and mechanics, equipment for ground-based training as well spares and logistics support.

The VPAF is an existing operator of the legacy L-39C/Z, having ordered a total of 31 aircraft.

The L-39NG is powered by a Williams FJ44-4M engine and operating costs for the type are estimated at €1500/flight hour. Development commenced in 2014 and the Type Certificate was obtained in October 2020.