Czech minister says Ukraine could receive four Skyfox jets in 2027

An initial batch of four L-39 Skyfox aircraft could reach Ukraine in 2027, Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka said in a November 13 television interview, The Kyiv Independent reported.

Macinka said funding for the four aircraft had been secured, the outlet reported. Delivery remains dependent on export licences for some foreign-made components and avionics.

The possible timetable concerns aircraft made by Czech company Aero Vodochody. On its product page, the manufacturer describes the Skyfox as a subsonic jet trainer and tactical aircraft intended for flight and tactical training. Aero’s general training programme combines ground-based learning for military pilots with desktop and cockpit trainers, a full-mission simulator, virtual training and live flying. The company also lists tools for planning and reviewing missions as part of that programme.

The Kyiv Independent said the licences concern equipment from Belgium, France and the United States. It also reported that Macinka expected another eight aircraft in 2028.