A Joint Working Agreement has been signed between AERO Vodochody a.s. (Aero), Gripen International and Saab Czech to establish a mutual cooperation concerning marketing and manufacturing of the L-159 Combat & Training System. According to the agreement, the companies agree to undertake to cooperate both in the marketing and sales of the L-159 and in further development of the L-159. In addition, the agreement aims to further develop manufacturing capabilities of Aero through identifying manufacturing work packages from Saab on a range of projects which will be placed at Aero. Moreover, the agreement includes design and development studies for upgrades and modifications of both the single and two seat versions of the L-159. The companies will also cooperate in the area of a common logistic support system for the Czech Air Force Gripen fighter aircraft and the L-159 advanced training and light combat aircraft.

"This agreement between Gripen International and AERO Vodochody demonstrates our commitment to a long term relationship with the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic is one of the countries where the Gripen fighter is in service today and this shows that Gripen International has paved the way for this mutual cooperation with Aero,” says Johan Lehander, Managing Director Gripen International.

"We are delighted with the new mutual cooperation with Gripen International, which will certainly contribute to our joint success and a long term relationship," says Peter Ondro, President of Aero.

Background
AERO Vodochody a.s. is the largest manufacturer of jet training aircraft in the world, having delivered more than 6,500 units, and the largest aerospace manufacturer in the Czech Republic, also active in world-class aerostructures projects.

The L-159 Combat & Training System contains the single-seat advanced light combat and two-seat advanced training aircraft, integrated logistic support, ground based training system, including a full mission simulator, mission planning and debriefing equipment and other support aids. The system has been developed in cooperation with leading aerospace manufacturers abroad as well as in the Czech Republic and is well-established in service with the Czech Air Force.

Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech, Hungarian and South African Air Forces. It has also been ordered by the Royal Thai Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide. Gripen International is also delivering successful industrial cooperation programs in Czech Republic, Hungary and South Africa.

Gripen International is a Swedish company acting as a prime contracting organization, responsible for marketing, selling and supporting the Gripen fighter worldwide. Gripen International combines the strength of its international industrial partners, which are among the world’s most experienced and respected manufacturers of aerospace and defence equipment. Saab Czech s.r.o., daughter company of Saab International is the local representative in the Czech Republic and it has been part of the agreement as well.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers´ changing needs.

Source: AERO Vodochody
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