Czechia sends eight fighter jets for long-term repairs, delaying Ukraine transfer
Photo: L-159 (Aero Vodochody) combat-capable trainer
The Czech Armed Forces have unexpectedly sent eight L-159T1 and L-159T2 combat-capable trainers for long-term maintenance. Four of these aircraft had previously been planned for transfer to Ukraine, according to Armádní noviny and Militarnyi.
Aero Vodochody will carry out the repairs on all eight planes. The maintenance work is intended to ensure the aircraft can be operated safely and reliably for years to come.
The repairs are expected to be very long-term, lasting at least until 2029. They will theoretically extend the aircraft’s service life by 2,000 flight hours, equivalent to about eight years of operation.
"As the original manufacturer, Aero possesses unique know-how, complete technical documentation, and the supply chain needed to carry out this work," said Aero Vodochody President and CEO Viktor Sotona.
At the same time, there is no immediate operational need for the repairs. According to the work schedule, three aircraft will undergo repairs in 2026, another three in 2027, and the remaining two in 2028. Only in 2029, after all post-repair testing is completed, will the planes be returned to the army.
Czech jet transfer to Ukraine derailed
As reported, the government of the new Czech Prime Minister, Andrej Babiš, who is suspected of holding anti-European views, has blocked the transfer of the L-159 combat-capable trainer to Ukraine. Ukraine was expected to receive four such jets.
The Czech military stated that transferring the aircraft would in no way undermine the country’s defense capabilities. However, Babiš personally intervened, saying he had put an end to discussions about a possible delivery of the jets to Ukraine.
Following this, Czech President Petr Pavel, who had previously said the transfer was possible, entered into a sharp conflict with Babiš’s government. In apparent retaliation, the defense minister in Babiš’s cabinet canceled an already approved visit to the United States by the Chief of the Czech General Staff.
Czech Chief of the General Staff General Karel Řehka publicly rejected claims by Defense Minister Jaromír Zůna that the transfer of the aircraft would threaten the country’s defense capability. Shortly afterward, the minister decided to retaliate against the general by canceling the trip.
Meanwhile, against the backdrop of the Czech government’s unclear actions, the manufacturer of the L-159 informed Ukraine that an alternative option may be available. Aero Vodochody is considering offering Ukraine a more modern aircraft — the L-39NG Skyfox.
