Farnborough International Airshow 2006 participants have a unique chance to see the key elements of the L-159B Advanced Training System, presented by the Czech company AERO Vodochody a.s. – the L-159B Full Mission Simulator (FMS) with a Mission Planning and Debriefing Station at AERO stand (Hall 3, Stand D17) and the L-159B Advanced Training and Light Combat Aircraft in display.
The L-159B aircraft made its first exhibition abroad at Farnborough 2002. This year, the whole L-159B System is introduced, again debuting in Farnborough.
AERO has worked on the L-159B FMS development in cooperation with E-COM Company, granted by the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade. "The philosophy of the System is to deliver not only modern powerful aircraft for advanced and operational training, optionally for combat tasks, which the L-159B represents, but to fully cover customer’s needs for a modern and cost effective training of combat pilots," said Petr Raska, AERO Project Department Manager.
Since its first official display abroad at Farnborough 2002, the L-159B aircraft has participated in numerous marketing tours in Asia, Africa and Europe. In addition, many of its systems were significantly improved. Open architecture avionics features additional display pages, improved weapon delivery simulations and integrated system for data transfer and multi-channel digital video recording. Electrical system features components with increased reliability and environmental control system has improved performance in hot conditions. Pilot comfort during ferry flights is improved by the addition of luggage compartment in the aircraft nose.
The L-159B FMS, which represents the most sophisticated component of the L-159B Ground Based Training System, is based on latest commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computer and image generation technologies in order to save cost and provide long-term supportability and upgradability. The FMS is modular and fully transportable, and under normal climatic conditions it does not require air-conditioned environment. These features distinguish the L-159B FMS from older generation systems which were typically based on dedicated and expensive components and required special facilities for its operation.
The image is projected on a spherical dome which provides 225 deg horizontal field of view (FOV) at zero elevation and 360 deg FOV above 40 deg elevation. FMS software (SW) is also modular and is partitioned into several components enabling control and monitoring of simulated missions, L-159B platform simulation and image generation. The system is capable of simulating navigation FLIR image on the HUD. It also has provisions for Night Vision Goggles simulation and integration into simulator network via DIS/HLA protocol.
The L-159 aircraft are in service with the Czech Air Force, regularly participating at international exercises, such as NATO Air Meet, Flying Rhino, Brilliant Arrow etc. At the end of 2005 AERO signed General Agreement with the Czech Ministry of Defence on providing after-guarantee support to the L-159/L-39 aircraft for their whole life-cycle valid till 2029, which includes an obligation of both parties to sign further contracts on strictly set dates, e.g. the L-159 fleet after-guarantee service, spare parts delivery, modification of four single-seat L-159 aircraft into two-seat versions, feasibility study of further actions of larger scale, representing mainly specified works of the D-level level maintenance, modernization and growth potential assurance.
Aero Presents Aerostructures Capabilities
At Farnborough International Airshow 2006, AERO Vodochody a.s. presents together with the Military Program its Aerostructures Division. AERO Vodochody premises accommodate all facilities and equipment necessary to carry out world-class aerostructures programs, as well as final assembly of civil and military aircraft.
AERO Vodochody a.s. is a highly successful partner to leading aerospace manufacturers worldwide:
--Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation - S-76C Helicopter - complete manufacture, excluding dynamic part installation and finalization of interior
--The Boeing Company - F/A-18E/F Super Hornet - Gun Bay Door Assembly
--BAE Systems - B 767 Fixed Leading Edge Assembly Kits
--Vought Aircraft Industries - B 747 Fuselage Sheet Metal Parts
--EADS Augsburg - A320/A340 Subassemblies
--AIRCELLE - A340 Transport Jigs
--MT Aerospace - Skins for Ariane 5 Rocket
--AeroTaxi Czech Republic - Executive Aircraft Painting, etc.
AERO intends to significantly increase the aerostructures business, thus utilizing its capacity in the following areas of potential cooperation:
--Engineering
--Airframe Assembly, including Installations and Testing
--Detail Part Fabrication (esp. Machining, Sheet Metal Forming, Electrical Wire Harnesses)
--Processes (esp. Heat and Surface Treatment and Non-destructive Testing)
--Tool design & Manufacture
--Executive Aircraft Painting
--Overhauls and Upgrades
--Airport Services, etc.
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Complete Aero L-159B Advanced Training System at Farnborough
