General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), conducted an inspection of the L-39 Skyfox demonstrator at the UPDF Entebbe Air Base on Monday, highlighting the armed forces’ continued drive toward modernizing Uganda’s air capabilities.
The aircraft was presented by a delegation from Aero Vodochody, the Czech manufacturer of the L-39 series, led by Vladan Resner and including senior officials David Jahoda and Vladimir Tovarek.
The team briefed the CDF on the aircraft’s performance, avionics, versatility, and dual suitability as a military trainer and light-combat platform.
Joining the inspection were the Commander of the Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, and senior Air Force commanders, who participated in discussions about the aircraft’s potential role in both pilot training and operational support missions.
Gen Muhoozi stressed that technological advancement is central to the Air Force’s readiness and long-term strategic development.
“Our focus is to build a capable, modern, and professional air arm that can meet current and future security demands. Evaluating platforms such as the L-39 Skyfox is part of our commitment to equipping our forces with reliable and efficient capabilities,” he said.
The CDF’s modernization agenda includes advanced personnel training, acquisition of next-generation equipment, and institutional reforms to improve resource efficiency and welfare for UPDF personnel.
Aircraft like the L-39 Skyfox are seen as key to enhancing training quality and operational effectiveness.
If procured, the L-39 Skyfox is expected to strengthen Uganda’s pilot training pipeline while supporting light-combat operations, marking a significant step in the UPDF Air Force’s ongoing modernization and capability expansion.