AERO Vodochody has signed two new contracts for the delivery of L-39 Skyfox aircraft to customers in Angola and North America. The agreements mark a further expansion of the Czech aircraft programme beyond Europe and Asia, and confirm growing international confidence in the Skyfox as a modern jet trainer and tactical aircraft.
Vodochody, June 18, 2026 – AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. has secured two new contracts for the L-39 Skyfox, bringing the aircraft to two additional continents. The new orders cover Angola and North America, opening the way for Skyfox operations in Africa and the American market.
According to AERO, both contracts are active, the aircraft are already in production, and deliveries will take place according to the agreed schedules. The new orders also mean that AERO’s production capacity is filled until the second quarter of 2027.
Over the past few months, AERO has secured orders for nine new Skyfox aircraft, including two options. The company has also received orders for the overhaul of several older L-39 Albatros aircraft. The total value of these recent orders exceeds EUR 200 million. In parallel, AERO is completing production of four additional aircraft for another customer, who does not wish to comment further on the contract.
“The entry of the Skyfox into the African and North American markets is extremely important for AERO, as it significantly increases the aircraft’s visibility, enables its direct presentation to other customers and opens the way to future business opportunities,” said Viktor Sotona, President and Chairman of the Board of AERO. “The new contracts confirm that the Skyfox programme has global potential and that AERO is on the right track.”
Angola Becomes the First African Customer
In Angola, AERO has signed a contract for the delivery of up to four L-39 Skyfox aircraft. The package will also include related products and services to support the introduction of the aircraft into operation and the further development of the Angolan Air Force training system.
Angola thus becomes the first African customer of the L-39 Skyfox programme.
The customer’s original requirement focused on the overhaul of older L-39 Albatros aircraft. After evaluating operational, economic and capability parameters, Angola decided instead to acquire new Skyfox aircraft. The new platform offers higher performance, modern avionics, more efficient operation and a longer-term perspective for pilot training development.
“We are very pleased to have confirmed our first customer from the African continent. The Skyfox aircraft for the Angolan Air Force will also become the first aircraft of this type to operate in demanding conditions in the Southern Hemisphere,” said Sotona. “We all believe this is only the first step and that an even greater number of Skyfox aircraft will soon be seen in African skies.”
Skyfox Enters the North American Market
AERO has also signed a second contract with a customer from North America. The cooperation will include commercial representation of the L-39 Skyfox brand in the region.
The customer comes from the civil sector and has long-standing experience with a fleet of L-39 Albatros aircraft. Preparations are now under way for the completion and delivery of the first Skyfox aircraft that will operate in North America.
“The agreement with our new partner is important for AERO on two levels. Not only will it bring the first Skyfox aircraft to another continent, but it will also make it possible to actively offer and present this platform to other potential users and customers in the region,” said Sotona. “Direct customer experience and on-site aircraft presentation are the best sales tools.”
A Programme Moving from Launch to Global Expansion
The new contracts follow AERO’s recently announced record financial results for 2025 and further strengthen the position of the L-39 Skyfox as the company’s key proprietary aircraft programme.
The Skyfox is a new-generation subsonic jet trainer and tactical aircraft developed as the successor to the legendary L-39 Albatros family. It is designed for flight and tactical training, light attack capability, air patrolling and reconnaissance. Its export momentum reflects a wider demand for modern, cost-efficient training platforms able to support both national pilot training systems and broader operational requirements.
For AERO, the significance of the latest orders goes beyond the number of aircraft sold. Entry into Africa and North America gives the Skyfox direct visibility in two strategically important regions. It also creates reference users, practical demonstration opportunities and a stronger base for future sales campaigns.
With customers now covering Europe, Asia, Africa and North America, the L-39 Skyfox programme is moving from serial production into a more mature phase of international expansion.
About the Author
