Press Release

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE and LOM PRAHA Join Forces for Advanced Pilot Training – Letter of Intent Signed at IDET Fair

Brno, May 28, 2025 – AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE and LOM PRAHA today signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) at the IDET international defence and security fair in Brno, with the aim of developing the capabilities of the L-39 Skyfox training system using the advanced Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) concept.

“The signing of this document confirms our joint commitment to providing customers with state-of-the-art training solutions that combine real flight with virtual environments and simulated adversaries,” said Viktor Sotona, President and Chairman of the Board of AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE.
“This is an important step in Aero’s strategy to offer not only high-end aircraft, but also comprehensive training solutions that meet the demands of the 21st century. The LVC system, which we are developing together with LOM PRAHA, significantly increases the efficiency and realism of training while considerably reducing its cost. This added value is especially important for international customers seeking modern and flexible pilot preparation systems for 4th and 5th generation aircraft. The L-39 Skyfox offers a complete training ecosystem adaptable to the specific needs of each air force, and the LVC system fits into it organically. I believe that the ability to offer connected and realistic training environments is one of the key success factors for the L-39 Skyfox in the global training systems market,” added Sotona.

Jiří Protiva, Director of the state enterprise LOM PRAHA, stated:
“Delivering high-quality and realistic pilot training is a top priority for us. With the LVC system, we can significantly expand training capabilities and improve pilot readiness for real combat situations. This modern approach allows us to integrate real flights, simulators, and computer-controlled adversaries into a single system, substantially increasing the realism and effectiveness of training. By connecting these elements, we create a unified training environment where pilots can practice complex and dynamic scenarios that closely reflect today’s battlefield – with greater safety and significantly lower costs. This system not only saves operational resources, but also accelerates crew training and improves their ability to respond to real threats. It enables simulation of advanced scenarios such as joint operations, electronic warfare, or defense against sophisticated enemies. Our cooperation with Aero also enables further technological modernization and will elevate flight training in Pardubice to the top European level in integrated air force training,” said Protiva.

A joint presentation of the LVC system capabilities is planned for the Future Air Forces Conference 2025 in Pardubice this September, where new integrated training possibilities will be showcased by specialists from Aero, LOM PRAHA, and VR Group. This initiative confirms Aero’s strategic focus on delivering comprehensive training solutions and future-oriented technologies.

The cooperation builds on the long-term partnership between both companies in military pilot training and reflects the growing need for modern, effective training methods for 4th and 5th generation aircraft. LOM PRAHA operates the L-39 Skyfox aircraft at its Flight Training Center in Pardubice, where it trains pilots for the Czech Armed Forces.

What is the LVC System?

LVC (Live, Virtual, Constructive) is a modern approach to military training that integrates three key components into a connected training environment:

  • Live – real aircraft flights with onboard crews
  • Virtual – training on advanced flight simulators that immerse participants in realistic scenarios including weather, combat, and operations
  • Constructive – computer-controlled units and adversaries that act based on pre-defined rules or scenarios

Together, these elements create a single, comprehensive environment that dramatically improves the quality and efficiency of training, better preparing personnel for modern conflicts and threats.

About the L-39 Skyfox

The L-39 Skyfox is an entirely new, multi-role, modern platform capable of covering a wide range of functions – from pilot training to light combat and reconnaissance missions. It is the most efficient aircraft in its class, available in both Western and Eastern configurations and certified according to EU and NATO standards.
This versatile technological platform integrates modern simulation technologies and ground-based training systems. The Czech-made L-39 Skyfox combines modern avionics, a powerful jet engine, and outstanding flight characteristics, making it an ideal solution for all phases of training for pilots of 4th and 5th generation aircraft, reconnaissance missions, and light combat operations involving cooperation with ground forces.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of both civil and military aircraft. It is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest in the world.
In the military segment, Aero is a long-term partner to many air forces and holds a strong position in the market for jet trainers and light attack aircraft. With over 11,000 aircraft produced in its 100-year history, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in service with dozens of military operators and aerobatic teams, and its new L-39 Skyfox, Aero is establishing itself as a leader in the global market for jet training aircraft.
In the civil aviation sector, Aero collaborates with major global manufacturers across a wide range of programs and participates in risk-sharing projects that involve not only production and assembly, but also design and development responsibilities.

Contact:
Radka Černá, PR & Communications Manager
Email: radka.cerna@aero
Phone: +420 608 974 258
www.aero.cz

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