NATO recommendations for in-flight refuelling capability for the L-159 not well recieved by producer and Czech MoD

Published: 1/26/2000

NATO recommendations, that the L-159 light attack aircraft should be equipped for in-flight refuelling, has caused some consternation on the part of the Czech producer, Aero Vodochody, and the Czech authorities, who see the requirement as posing a serious financial and technical problem. The Ministry of Defence and Aero are still negotiating over the purchase of the aircraft and the modification is considered an additional burden on a budget struggling to buy the 72 aircraft ordered for 30 billion crowns. Reports suggest that Aero is questioning the viability of the whole project, given its costs and potential sales. The first five aircraft were delivered in November 1999, after a delay of over a year. Associated articles: www.concise.org 28th June 1999

Article ID: 1354