Iraqi Minister of Defence visited Aero Vodochody to discuss current and future business relations
Prague, May 13, 2022 – Iraqi delegation led by the Minister of Defence, Mr. Juma Inad visited AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE (Aero). The main purpose of the visit was a presentation of the L-159 modernization project, demonstration of the L-39NG prototype, and further development of business relations between the OMNIPOL Group and Iraq. The visit took place under the patronage of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic.
The visit of Iraqi representatives to the largest Czech aircraft manufacturer represents a continuation of Aero Vodochody's long-term relationship with the Iraqi Air Force. The agenda of the visit to Aero included a presentation of the upgraded L-159 Alca light combat aircraft used by the Iraqi Air Force and the presentation of the L-39NG jet trainer and its potential purchase as a future platform for pilot training.
"The meeting with the Iraqi delegation brought further developments in the Iraqi L-159 modernization project and the possible future use of the L-39NG as an efficient and modern platform for training of Iraqi pilots for the Czech L-159 and American F-16 aircraft. Aero platforms have an excellent reputation among the Iraqi Air Force. The L-159 Alca light attack aircraft continues to prove its quality and contributions in various combat missions," said Viktor Sotona, President and CEO of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.
The delegation was also presented with the L 410 NG aircraft, including the opportunity to see the aircraft in person. Due to the close cooperation of companies within the OMNIPOL Group, of which the manufacturer of the L 410 NG, Aircraft Industries, has recently become a part of, the company was able to plan the flyover and landing of this aircraft at the Vodochody airport.
"The benefits of connecting different companies in the Czech aviation industry are already apparent in the first contact with customers. We are very pleased to be able to present our companies as part of a strong group in this traditional industry," added Jiří Podpěra, President of OMNIPOL.
Iraq is an important, long-term partner of Aero. It is also a current user of the L-159 aircraft. Aero has delivered a total of 10 single-seat L-159A and two L-159T1 in twin-seat configuration to the Iraqi Air Force. The cooperation also included training of Iraqi pilots, training of ground personnel and Iraqi flight instructors. Many Iraqi pilots began their careers in the L-29 Delfín and L-39 Albatros aircraft.
The L-159 Alca light combat and training aircraft was designed to perform a variety of combat missions and aerial reconnaissance. The new L-39NG jet trainer, the flagship product of Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody, is the successor to the legendary L-39 Albatros.
Contact:
Filip Gunnar Kulštrunk, VP Sales & Marketing
mailto:filip.kulstrunk@aero.cz, +420 605 902 690
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE
AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the design, manufacture, maintenance, overhaul and upgrade of military and civil aircraft. It is the largest aviation manufacturer in the Czech Republic and with history dating back to 1919, Aero is one of the oldest aerospace companies in the world. In the field of military aircraft, Aero has been a reliable long-term partner to many of the world's air forces and continues to maintain a strong position on the market of military training and light combat aircraft.
With a track record of 11,000 aircraft produced over the last 100 years, a broad coverage of dozens of military operators and demo teams, a significant existing fleet of L-39 Albatrosses and with a brand new aircraft, the L-39NG, Aero is maintaining its positioning as a leader in the jet training market. In the field of civil aviation, Aero collaborates with many of the world's largest manufacturers in a diverse range of projects.
Aircraft Industries
Aircraft Industries is a Czech company based in Kunovice with a long tradition of aircraft production, which is currently engaged in the development, production, sale and service of L 410 and L 410NG aircraft. At the same time, it operates the non-public Kunovice International Airport and is the founder of its own Secondary Aviation School.
OMNIPOL
OMNIPOL is an investment and trading group with more than eighty-five years of experience in the domestic and international markets. The company provides top solutions for the defense and security sector and focuses on products in HI-TECH fields. OMNIPOL owns two subsidiaries, ERA and MESIT, which have advanced technologies that focus on passive air, land and sea target tracking systems, military communications, aircraft instruments and precision engineering, including its own foundry and galvanic processes. AERO Vodochody is also part of the group. The entire OMNIPOL Group employs more than 2,800 professionals, of which over 400 are involved in research and development of new products.
