Aero L-29 Delfin |
Militarymedia.net - The Aero L-29 Delfin (dolphin), NATO Maya designation, was the first jetliner to be designed locally in Czechoslovakia. It made its maiden flight in 1959. Production began in 1963 and ceased in 1974. It was a very successful design, which became the standard trainer jet for the Eastern Bloc countries, with the exception of Poland. It is also exported to a number of countries. Around 3,500 of these trainer jets were built. The Soviet Air Force alone acquired more than 2,000. The aircraft is now retired from military service, but is still popular with civilian operators.
The L-29 Delfin is powered by a Czech Motorlet M701 turbojet engine. It was a simple, sturdy aircraft, easy to build, operate and fly. These trainers can operate from unprepared airfields. It also has an impressive safety record for this type. Both the instructor and pilot have ejection seats.
Delfin also served in a weapons training role. It is equipped with hardpoints and can carry 200 kg of various weapons, including gun pods, bombs or rockets. In fact, the Egyptian L-29 was used in combat against Israeli tanks.
The Aero L-29 Delfin was replaced by the L-39 Albatros, which also appeared to be a very successful design.
Aero L-29 Delfin Variant :
L-29A Acrobat, a special single-seat aerobatic version.
The reconnaissance version of the L-29R, equipped with a nose-mounted camera.