Two 'new' aircraft from Romania show the strong potential of the upgrade market for many manufacturers

Published: 6/28/1999

Aerostar of Romania brought to Le Bourget two 'new' aircraft, a MiG-21bis Lancer 111 and IAK-52W. The MiG-21bis Lancer 111, the final production version of the many variants of this aircraft, first flew in October of last year and is part of a program that has been conducted with Israel's Elbit since 1995. Purchased from an unnamed CIS country, overhauled and modernised, the aircraft now acts as the company's demonstrator. The MiG-21bis specifically offers wider radar capabilities than the MiG-21MF/Lancer currently in service with the Romanian Air Force, some 80 of which have been delivered to date out of the 110 aircraft program. In the buoyant market for Mig-21 upgrades Aerostar and Elbit are jointly marketing the aircraft as having the only upgrade package on the type with full production and operational experience. According to Aerostar, talks have already begun with potential customers. The next step for Aerostar and possibly involving their long-term partner Elbit is MiG-29 upgrades, however negotiations are also being conducted with the other active providers of upgrades, DASA and MAPO. The Romanian company is closely researching the market and reviewing a number of possible solutions. If Aerostar joins with Elbit the upgrade package for the MiG-29 will have to ensure wide commonality with the MiG-21MF Lancer, which may make the package more attractive to potential customers. Responding to customer's suggestions was the route that brought about the IAK-52W two-seat piston engined variant of the IAK-52 primary trainer, which first flew in 1978. Avionics have been westernised and expanded to allow night flights and additional fuel capacity has been added. The modifications have resulted in brisk demand of at least 30 units a year. The Warbird market in the US is one of the most interesting, especially as the aircraft is offered for the very competitive price of $120,000. The great challenge for Aerostar however, is its expected privatisation. The company has been preparing for this over the past few years and considers its current holding structure appropriate for its privatisation. The company has also created a joint venture with Thomson CSF of France. The new company called Aerothom Electronics will be responsible for manufacturing IFFs, communication and protection systems for both aircraft and military vehicles. Initially the company will be focused on domestic market, but it plans to develop export sales.

Article ID: 634