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.