Breaking news
Iraq takes delivery of first batch of Aero L-159 Advanced Light Combat Aircraft.
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World Aviation Defense & Security News - Iraq
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| Iraq takes delivery of first batch of Aero L-159 Advanced Light Combat Aircraft | |||
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Iraq reportedly took delivery of its first batch of Aero L-159 Advanced Light Combat Aircraft (ALCA), according to pictures released on Iraqi Defense Minister, Khalid al Obaidi, official Twitter account. The aircraft landed today on Iraqi Air Force's Balad Airbase. The Czech Republic Government authorised Aero Vodochody to sell 15 surplus L-159 advanced light combat aircraft (ALCA) to Iraq in March 2015.
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 A first batch of L-159 ALCA aircraft landed today in Iraq's Balad Airbase |
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In March 2015, The Iraqi government agreed to take delivery of 10 single-seater L-159A models, 2 two-seater L-159 trainers, and three airframes intended for spare parts worth $30.1million . All deliveries will be completed by 2017.
Under the terms of agreement, the company initially purchased the aircraft from the Czech Air Force, and then resold them to Iraq, which is currently engaged in a fight with the Islamic State militants. The Czechs have been trying to sell the planes to Iraq for years. A previous attempt to sell Iraq 28 of the aircraft fell through in 2013 when Baghdad agreed to buy South Korea’s FA-50 planes instead. The L159 ALCA is based on the proven airframe design and aerodynamic configuration of the L39 Albatros and L59 family of basic and advanced jet trainers. It incorporates a high-performance military turbofan engine, advanced avionics and sensors. The aircraft is equipped with a Honeywell ITEC F 124-GA-100 engine developing a maximum thrust of 28kN. The aircraft is equipped with a Hamilton Standards Stores Management System. There are seven hardpoints to carry stores: three under each wing and one under the centre fuselage. The operational capabilities of the aircraft include close air support, tactical reconnaissance, air defence, counter insurgency, border patrol, anti-ship missions, and lead-in fighter and weapons training. |
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