Czech Republic Sends its L-159s for Repair Amid Interest from Ukraine

The Czech Armed Forces have sent eight L-159 aircraft for repair, which Ukraine is seeking to acquire for air defense.

The L-159T1 and L-159T2 aircraft will be repaired by Aero Vodochody, according to Armádní noviny.

The project aims to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of the aircraft in the coming years.

The work will continue until 2029 and will extend the aircraft’s service life by 2,000 flight hours.

Accordingly, this represents eight years of operation for all aircraft components and assemblies, the report said.

L-159 repair

It is noted that this work is not a modernization of the aircraft, but standard procedures provided for by the manufacturer.

“As the original manufacturer, Aero has the unique know-how, complete technical documentation, and supply chain necessary to perform this work,” explained Viktor Sotona, President and CEO of Aero Vodochody.

The program covers five T1 aircraft and three T2 aircraft.

In 2026 and 2027, work will gradually begin on three aircraft each year, and in 2028 on the last two aircraft.

After successful completion of testing, the aircraft will be transferred to the Czech Republic Army and will fly to their home airfields, where they will continue to perform training and support tasks for the Czech Air Force.

Earlier, it became known that the Czech Armed Forces do not object to the transfer of four of these aircraft to Ukraine.

It is noted that such a transfer will not threaten the country’s security, but the final decision is political in nature.