Slovak Air Force to Showcase Impressive Lineup at NATO & Czech Air Force Days 2024
Ostrava, Czechia – The Slovak Air Force is set to make a significant impact at this year’s NATO Days & Czech Air Force Days, scheduled to take place on September 21-22, 2024. The event, which is one of the largest military air shows in Europe, will see the Slovak contingent presenting an array of its advanced aircraft, including the L-39 Albatros training aircraft, the C-27J Spartan transport aircraft, and the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter.
The Slovak Air Force’s participation promises to be a highlight of the event, with both static and dynamic displays planned. The UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, in particular, is set to captivate audiences with its dynamic flight demonstration, marking its fourth consecutive appearance at Mosnov airport. Meanwhile, the L-39 Albatros and the C-27J Spartan will be making their return after an absence of eight and five years, respectively. Joining the C-27 and L-39 on static display will be the second example of the Black Hawk helicopter, adding to the array of military aircraft available for close up viewing.
Slovak Albatros
Slovak International Air Fest 2019
“This year at the NATO Days, the Slovak Air Force plans to present a cross-section of its capabilities, in which the fighter air force is currently missing due to rearmament. In the near future, they will also acquire new training aircraft, so we will have one of the last opportunities to see the originally Czechoslovak Albatros, which was one of the world’s most successful training jet aircraft,” said Zbynek Pavlacik, chairman of Jagello 2000, the organizing body behind NATO Days.
The L-39 Albatros, produced by Aero Vodochody, has a storied history dating back to its first flight in 1968. With nearly 3,000 units produced, it remains the most widely used training jet in the world, having served more than 40 air forces globally. As Slovakia looks to modernize its fleet, this year’s NATO Days may be one of the last opportunities to witness this iconic aircraft in action.
The UH-60 Black Hawk, a multi-purpose helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky, is renowned for its reliability and versatility. Used extensively in both combat and non-combat roles, the Black Hawk has proven its mettle in a variety of operational deployments. The Slovak Air Force currently operates 11 modernized UH-60M helicopters, which are also utilized by numerous police units and in disaster response scenarios.
Additionally, the Slovak Air Force will showcase its C-27J Spartan transport aircraft, a twin-engine turboprop developed by the Italian company Leonardo-Finmeccanica. These aircraft have replaced the retired An-24 and An-26 models and play a crucial role in international missions and national crisis management. The Slovak Air Force currently has two C-27J Spartans in its inventory, underscoring its commitment to maintaining a versatile and capable transport fleet.
As the Slovak Air Force prepares to demonstrate its capabilities at NATO Days & Czech Air Force Days 2024, attendees can look forward to an impressive display of aviation prowess. The event promises to be a fitting tribute to the skill and dedication of the Slovak Air Force, offering a unique glimpse into the future of military aviation in the region.
For more information, visit the NATO & Czech Air Force Days website by clicking here.
