UPDF modernisation: CDF Kainerugaba inspects L-39 skyfox jet

WAKISO - The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has inspected a demonstrator L-39 Skyfox aircraft presented by its manufacturer on Monday at the UPDF Entebbe Air Base in Entebbe.

Led by Vladan Resner, the delegation from the aircraft manufacturer, Aero Vodochody,  took the CDF through the detailed capabilities and features of the modern turbofan-powered military trainer and light combat platform.

The Commander of the Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, other senior Air Force officers, plus David Jahoda and Vladimir Tovarek of the L-39 Skyfox team attended the inspection and briefing on November 01.

CDF General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and senior UPDF officers guided by Vladan Resner during inspection of  L-39 Skyfox aircraft  at Entebbe Air Base in Entebbe on Monday. (UPDF Photos)

Gen. Kainerugaba's sister, Diana Kyaremera Museveni, was also at the Airbase during the inspection.

Observing that at its inception, the National Resistance Army (NRA) began without an air wing, General Kainerugaba underscored the importance of continuous technological advancement for the Air Force.

A release from the communications directorate of the Ministry of Defence and Veterans' Affairs MODVA states that CDF reiterated that building a modern air arm remains a key strategic priority. 

CDF General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and his sister Diana during inspection of L-39 Skyfox aircraft at Entebbe Air Base in Entebbe on Monday.

"The CDF’s focus on comprehensive UPDF modernisation extends across equipment acquisition, advanced personnel training, and institutional reforms aimed at ensuring resource efficiency and troop welfare. Evaluating new-generation assets, such as the L-39NG, forms part of this hands-on approach to capability development. If acquired, this type of aircraft would be expected to play a significant role in advancing pilot training and supporting light combat operations," reads the MoDVA media handout.

The release was mum about team Kainerugaba's impression of the jet.

According to their website, L-39 Skyfox is a modern light attack and trainer jet, capable of performing a range of tactical missions, including air-to-ground and air-to-air operations against slow targets. 

The Skyfox is designed for versatility with up to five hardpoints for carrying various armaments and payloads, and it is also equipped for reconnaissance missions.