The L-39 aircraft is a low-wing, tandem seating, all metal turbofan powered aircraft designed for basic and advanced training, including weapon delivery practicing, as well as for light attack tasks.
L-39 main features
Excellent handling characteristics within the whole flight envelope
Operation capability on grass strips and semi-prepared airstrips
Excellent visibility from both cockpits
Easy to maintain and service
Low operational cost
High reliability
The practical suitability of L-39 aircraft for training tasks is demonstrated daily in military service of more than 30 Air Forces in Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The entire L-39 fleet, covering more than 2,800 delivered L-39 aircraft worldwide, has accumulated over 4,000,000 flying hours.
L-39 versions
L-39C Aircraft for basic and advanced jet training
L-39V Single-seat aircraft for target towing
L-39ZO Training aircraft with extended weapon practice capabilities-four underwing hardpoints
L-39ZA Training and multipurpose light attack aircraft with underfuselage gun pod with four underwing hardpoints.
L-39 status
L-39 aircraft is not in current AERO production programme.
L-59 development and production are based on long experience with jet trainer technology and L-39 successful design.
As well as L-39 the L-59 is a single engine, all metal, conventional aerospace light alloy construction, jet trainer with tandem seating design. The L-59 combines design features and experience from the extremely successful L-39 aircraft family with a new powerful engine, advanced avionics and improvement in the airframe and other aircraft systems.
L-59 main features
more powerful DV-2 engine - max. static thrust 21.58 kN (4,850 lb)
canopy hydraulically-tilted upwards
hydraulically-actuated elevator and ailerons
Saphir-5M APU system providing back-up hydraulic and electric power
updated HUD and navigation system
zero-zero VS-2 ejection seats
high reliability
L-59 versions
L-39MS Czechoslovak Air Force Version
L-59E Arab Republic of Egypt Air Force Version
L-59T Tunisian Republic Air Force Version
L139
L159A Introduction
The L159A is a single-seat light multi-role combat aircraft designed for a variety of Air-to-Air, Air-to-Ground and Reconnaissance missions. The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-mode radar for all-weather, day and night operations and it can carry a wide range of NATO standard stores including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles and laser guided bombs. The L159A is in operational service with the Czech Air Force and in production.
L159A main features
Multi-Mode Pulse Doppler Radar
Advanced Human/Machine Interface wit Head-Up Display (HUD), Multi-Function Colour Display (MFCD) and Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick (HOTAS) controls
Avionics Integration based on MIL-STD-1553 databus
Accurate and autonomous navigation system with laser gyro based Inertial Navigation System (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS)
Extensive in-flight recording and debriefing capability for video, audio, self-protection system, engine and aircraft parameters
On-condition maintenance and fatigue monitoring system for low operational cost and optimum use of aircraft service life
On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS), On-Board Inert Gas Generating System (OBIGGS) and Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for self-contained operation with minimum support
Seven pylons for various stores
Ability to operate from semi-prepared airfields
"Best in its class" F124-GA-100 engine
Self-protection system installation and use of redundant systems for high level of survivability and flight safety
Multi Mission Flexibility in a Single Airframe
Air Interdiction
Close Air Support
Anti-Ship Missions
Air Defence
Counter Insurgency
Border Patrol
Tactical Reconnaissance
Main Operational Benefits of the L159 Design
Modular and adaptive design satisfying various customer requirements
Wide range of NATO compatible stores
Enhanced survivability
Superior handling qualities and high trust-to weight ratio
Advanced Human-Machine Interface
State-of-the-art systems and equipment
Data loading and recording systems support effective mission planning and debriefing
Ability to operate from semi-prepared airfields
Low acquisition and operational costs
L159A Basic Data
External dimensions:
Wing span
Length, overall
Height, overall
9.54 m
12.72 m
4.87 m
31 ft 3 in
41 ft 8 in
16 ft
Weights:
Weight empty
Max ramp weight
Max fuel weight
- internal
- external
Max external stores
4,350 kg
8,000 kg
1,547 kg
1,620 kg
2,700 kg
9,590 Ib
17,637 Ib
3,410 Ib
3,571 Ib
5,952 Ib
Performance:
Max level speed at S/L
936 km/h
505 KTAS
Powerplant:
One 28 kN (6,300 lbst)
Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-100
Military Turbofan Engine
Design load factor:
Max structural limit
+8g
-4g
Powerplant
The L159A is powered by the Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-100 engine, clearly the "Best in Class". The F124 is a two-shaft, non-afterburning turbofan engine of modular design with three stage LP axial compressor. HP compressor has four axial stages followed by one centrifugal.
High thrust-to-weight ratio provides the aircraft with superior performance and maneuverability. The engine is controlled by dual Full Authority Digital Electronics Control (FADEC) which automatically limits critical engine parameters and offers the pilot "unrestricted throttle movement" together with fast transient time and surge protection. Low engine bypass ratio results in better altitude lapse rate and superior Mach number performance. Modular design of the engine consists of seven basic modules. It provides complete interchangeability between engines that reduces spare count and simplifies maintenance.
Engine Monitoring System
An engine monitoring system (EMS) is embedded in the FADEC to provide data for life management, hardware tracking, and performance trend monitoring. Through computer-aided maintenance EMS reduces engine life cycle and support costs.
Secondary Power System
The secondary power system consists of a SAFIR 5F Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for ground and in-flight engine start-up. APU also provides emergency hydraulic power for flight control system and drives standby electrical generator.
Engine Performance
(Sea level, static, 15¡ãC/59F)
Max thrust
TSFC
Inlet Airflow
Qualification MIL-E-87231 and MIL-STD-1783
Bypass Ratio
Overall Presure Ratio
28.2 kN
79.2 kg/hr/kN
42.7 kg/sec
0.472
19.4
3,330 lb
0.777 lb/hr/lb
94.1 lb
0.472
19.4
Advanced Crew Station
The L159A crew station employs advanced integrated displays and controls providing pilot with exceptional level of situational awareness.
Advanced Cockpit Configuration
Stroke and raster capable Head-Up Display is the primary flight instrument and weapon aiming system in the cockpit.
Multifunction Colour Displays provide tactical and navigation information and weapon system status.
Hands-On-Throttle-and-Stick (HOTAS) concept enables pilot to control the aircraft without removing hands from either throttle, or the stick.
Communication, Navigation and Identification Equipment
Dual VHF/UHF radios
Ring Laser Gyro with embedded GPS
Air Data Computer
DME and VOR/ILS
IFF Transponder
Advanced Avionics System
The L159¡¯s avionics system meets multimission requirements and provides capabilities comparable to latest front-line fighters and attack aircraft. The basic system performs following functions :
Target Sensing
Controls and Displays
Stores Management
Communication, Navigation and Identification
Self Protection
Data Loading and Recording
System can be offered with several capability levels reflecting specific customer needs.
Targeting Sensor
The L159A version is equipped with FIAR GRIFO L Multi-Mode Pulse Doppler Radar that very effectively enables to engage targets at very long ranges.
Radar Operational Modes
Air-to-Air Search
5 Modes
Track While Scan
Up to 8 targets tracking
Air Combat
4 Submodes
Air-to-Surface
9 Ground and Sea Modes
The L159A ¨C Compatibility with Wide Range of Stores
Stores Management System
Seven hardpoints
MIL-STD-1760 compatibility
Wide range of NATO standard weapons including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles
The L159A also has provisions for future addition of new weapons including medium range air-to-air missiles, special pods for ECM, reconnaissance, night navigation and targeting.
Weapons and Stores
Survivability Enhancement and Self - Protection Equipment
The self-protection system is an open modular and can be upgraded or simplified according to customer operational and training needs. Small size and very low infra red signature of aircraft reduce probability of detection.
Radar Warning Receiver
Countermeasures Dispensing System
Cockpit Composite/Ceramic Ballistic Protection
Fuel Tanks Inerting System (OBIGGS)
Provision for ECM Pod
Escape System
The L159 aircraft escape system is an integrated system which allows safe escape at altitudes and speeds within the aircraft flight envelope including zero height and zero speed. The L159 escape system comprises lightweight fully automatic VS-2C ejection seat and a canopy jettison system.
Aircraft Monitoring System
The L159A aircraft is equipped with Aircraft Monitoring System (AMOS). The system consists of on-board and ground equipment for performing the following tasks
Collecting, processing and recording information on aircraft systems and flight loads
Automated data retrieval
Tracing the aircraft operation in accordance with airframe fatigue (Fatigue Monitoring System)
Flight incidence recording (crash recorder)
Integrated troubleshooting
Automated data transfer to the aircraft maintenance management system
Mission debriefing
Mission Planning, Debriefing and Data Transfer Aids
Dual channel video recording
Data Transfer System
AMOS debriefing capability
Optional RWR recording capability
Autopilot
Integrated Autopilot and Yaw Damper provides following modes
Attitude Hold
Heading Hold
Altitude Hold
Override
Aircraft Maintenance
The L159 aircraft is designed for high reliability and short Mean Time of Technical Repair (MTTR) The L 159 concept enables:
Two or Three level Maintenance Concept according to customer requirements
Fault identification and analysis by the means of Built-In Test Equipment
Very simple pre-flight, turn-around and post-flight servicing with no requirement for special tools or equipment.
The lowest maintenance costs in its category due to high reliability
Capability of autonomous operation from remote airfields
Life Time Logistic Support
Logistic Support Analysis in accordance with MIL-STD-1388-1A/2B
Computer based training aids
Complete range of conversion-to-type maintenance training
Recommendations are provided for repair facilities following a site survey
Complete set of GSE includes test equipment, tools and base equipment
The L159B is a two-seat derivative of the L159A primarily designed for Advanced and Operational/Lead-In Fighter Training. The L159B configuration can also be tailored to customer specific requirements and adapted to needs of Basic training as well as combat missions including Air-to-Ground, Patrol and Reconnaissance missions.
Main Features of the L159B are:
Airframe configuration and aircraft systems common to the L159A.
Provisions for optional nose-mounted sensors
Advanced Human Machine Interface with Head-Up Display, Multi-Function Colour Displays and Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick (HOTAS) controls
Avionics integration based on the MIL-STD-1553 databus
Accurate and autonomous navigation system with ring laser gyro based Inertial Navigation System (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS)
Extensive in-flight recording and debriefing capability for video, audio, self protection system, engine and aircraft parameters
On-condition maintenance and fatigue monitoring system for low operational cost and optimum use of aircraft service life
On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS), optional On-Board Inert Gas Generating System (OBIGGS) and Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for self-contained operations with minimum support
Seven pylons for various stores
Ability to operate from semi-prepared airfields
"Best in Class" F124-GA-100 engine
Optional Self-protection system installation and use of redundant systems for high level of survivability and flight safety
Multi Mission Flexibility in a Single Airframe
Advanced Training
Operational Lead-In Fighter Training
Close Air Support
Counter Insurgency
Border Patrol
Tactical Reconnaissance
Threat Simulation
Main Operational Benefits of the L159B
Modular and adaptive design satisfying various customer requirements
Cost effective training in advanced fighter type environment
Advanced Human-Machine Interface
State-of-the-art systems and equipment
Data loading and recording systems support effective mission planning and debriefing
Superior handling qualities and high thrust-to weight ratio
Wide range of stores
Ability to operate from semi-prepared airfields
L159B Basic Data
External dimensions:
Wing span
Length, overall
Height, overall
9.54 m
12.72 m
4.87 m
31 ft 3 in
41 ft 8 in
16 ft
Weights:
Weight empty
Max ramp weight
Max fuel weight
- internal
- external
Max external stores
4,350 kg
8,000 kg
1,320 kg
1,620 kg
2,700 kg
9,590 Ib
17,637 Ib
2,910 Ib
3,571 Ib
5,952 Ib
Performance:
Max level speed at S/L
936 km/h
505 KTAS
Powerplant:
One 28 kN (6,300 lbst)
Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-100
Military Turbofan Engine
Design load factor:
Max structural limit +8g -4g
Powerplant
The L159B is powered by the Honeywell/ITEC F124-GA-100 engine, clearly the "Best in Class". The F124 is a two-shaft, non-afterburning turbofan engine of modular design with three stage LP axial compressor. HP compressor has four axial stages followed by one centrifugal.
High thrust-to-weight ratio provides the aircraft with superior performance and maneuverability. The engine is controlled by Dual-channel Full Authority Digital Electronics Control (FADEC) which automatically limits critical engine parameters and offers the pilot "unrestricted throttle movement" together with fast transient time and surge protection. Low engine bypass ratio results in better altitude lapse rate and superior Mach number performance. Modular design of the engine consists of seven basic modules. It provides complete interchangeability between engines that reduces spar count and simplifies maintenance.
Engine Monitoring System
An engine monitoring system (EMS) is embedded in the FADEC to provide data for life management, hardware tracking, and performance trend monitoring. Through computer-aided maintenance EMS reduces engine life cycle and support costs.
Secondary Power System
The secondary power system consists of a SAFIR 5F Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for ground and in-flight engine start-up. APU also provides emergency hydraulic power for flight control system and drives standby electrical generator.
Engine Performance
(Sea level, static, 15¡ãC/59F)
Max thrust
TSFC
Inlet Airflow
Qualification MIL-E-87231 and MIL-STD-1783
Bypass Ratio
Overall Presure Ratio
28.2 kN
79.2 kg/hr/kN
42.7 kg/sec
0.472
19.4
6,330 lb
0.777 lb/hr/lb
94.1 lb/sec
0.472
19.4
Advanced Crew Station
The L159B crew station employs advanced integrated displays and controls providing pilot with exceptional level of situational awareness.
Cockpit Configuration
Stroke and raster capable Head-Up Display is the primary flight instrument and weapon aiming system in the cockpit.
Colour Multifunction Head-Down Displays provide tactical and navigation information and weapon system status.
Hands-On-Throttle-and-Stick (HOTAS) concept enables pilot to control the aircraft without removing hands from either throttle, or the stick.
Independent Multi-Function Displays in both cockpits
Instructor pilot in the rear cockpit can monitor student activities on HUD Repeater and on Multi-Function Displays by the means of "Repeat" Mode of rear cockpit displays
NVG compatible instrumentation and lighting
Electronic Standby Instrument System provides back-up for flight and navigation data
Communication, Navigation and Identification Equipment
Dual VHF/UHF radios
Ring Laser Gyro with embedded GPS
Air Data Computer
DME and VOR/ILS
IFF Transponder
Advanced Avionics System
The L159B digital integrated avionics system supports requirements on pilot training in advanced fighter type environment and its open architecture provides future growth.
The system performs following functions:
Controls and Displays
Communication, Navigation and Identification
Data Loading and Recording
Stores Management
Self Protection (optional)
Target Sensing (optional)
Advanced Avionics Components
Advanced Avionics Components such as Integrated Avionics Processor which represents Open Systems Architecture Computer support system flexibility, reprogrammability and future growth.
The L159B - Compatibility with Wide Range of Stores
Stores Management System
Seven hardpoints
MIL-STD-1760 compatibility
Wide range of NATO standard weapons including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles
The L159B also has provisions for future addition of new weapons, special pods for ECM, reconnaissance, night navigation and targeting.
Weapons and Stores
Survivability Enhancement and Self - Protection Equipment
The L159B is derived from single-seat multi-role light combat L159A which was designed to provide high level of survivability in combat environment. Design features such as redundant and standby systems provide tolerance to battle damage as well as increased level of flight safety required for training. The L159B can be equipped with optional self-protection system and its small size, low-infrared signature and optimized camouflage paint reduce probability of its detection.
Radar Warning Receiver
Countermeasures Dispensing System
Fuel Tanks Inerting System (OBIGGS)
Escape System
The L159B aircraft escape system is an integrated system which allows safe escape at altitudes and speeds within the aircraft's flight envelope including zero height and zero speed. The L159B escape system comprises lightweight fully automatic VS-2B ejection seats and a canopy jettison system.
Aircraft Monitoring System
The L159B aircraft is equipped with Aircraft Monitoring System (AMOS). The system consists of on-board and ground equipment for performing the following tasks
Collecting, processing and recording information on aircraft systems and flight loads
Automated data retrieval
Tracing the aircraft operation in accordance with airframe fatigue (Fatigue Monitoring System)
Flight incidence recording (crash recorder)
Integrated troubleshooting
Automated data transfer to the aircraft maintenence management system
Mission debriefing
Mission Planning, Debriefing and Data Transfer Aids
Dual channel video recording
Data Transfer System
AMOS debriefing capability
Optional RWR recording capability
Aircraft Maintenance
The L159B aircraft is designed for high reliability and short Mean Time of Technical Repair (MTTR)
The L159B concept enables:
Two or Three level Maintenance Concept according to customer requirements
Fault identification and analysis by the means of Built-In Test Equipment
Very simple pre-flight, turn-around and post-flight servicing with no requirements for special tools or equipment.
The lowest maintenance costs in its category due to high reliability
Capability of autonomous operation from remote airfields
Life Time Logistic Support
Logistic Support Analysis in accordance with MIL-STD-1388-1A/2B
Computer based training aids
Complete range of conversion-to-type maintenance training
Recommendations are provided for repair facilities following a site survey
Complete set of GSE includes test equipment, tools and base equipment