Latest in the long line of Albatros family combat-capable trainers, the L-159 ALCA (Advanced Light Combat Aircraft), is a single-seat multi-role aircraft which incorporates a number of Western avionics and systems such as a Honeywell engine and a Boeing integrated avionics suite which is characterized by a new multi-mode radar and modern cockpit with HOTAS controls. Overall however, it is very similar to the L-59 albeit without the dual tandem seats and with prominent underwing hardpoints which can carry advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles as well as other NATO-compatible stores. Given the vastly improved performance compared to its predecessor, the L-159 is expected to be aggressively promoted for export in the lucrative trainer/light-attack market where it will compete with similar designs such as the BAe Hawk.
The L-159 was developed from the earlier L-39/59 family of trainers and first flew on 2 August 1998, entering service with the Czech air force two years later. The two main versions are the L-159A ALCA single-seat attack aircraft with the above-mentioned enhancements as well as a two-seat trainer version known as the L-159B Albatros II which retains most of the L-159A's combat capability.
Preceded by:
NoneSucceeded by:
NoneDesign | L-159A |
Name | ALCA |
Type | Multi-Role Fighter |
Year | 2000 |
Crew | 1 |
Dimensions | |
Length | 12.72 m |
Height | 4.770 m |
Wing Span | 9.55 m |
Wing Area | n/a |
Weight | |
Empty | 4,160 kg |
Maximum | 8,000 kg |
Wing Loading | 425.5 kg/m² |
Performance | |
Speed | 930 km/h |
Ceiling | 13,200 m |
Range | 2,528 km |
Powerplant | |
Engine | 1 x F124-GA-100 Honeywell/ITEC 2,858 kgf |
Thrust/Weight | 0.62 |
Sensors | |
Radar | Grifo L |
Armament | |
Guns | - |
Payload | 2,340 kg |
Hardpoints | 7 |
Production | |
Built | n/a |
Total | 72 |