The Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, spent the day at the UPDF Entebbe Air Base reviewing a demonstrator of the L-39 Skyfox, a modern turbofan military trainer and light combat aircraft presented by its manufacturer, Aero Vodochody.
The visiting technical team showcased the aircraft’s performance features and training capabilities, giving the CDF and senior Air Force leadership a detailed look at its potential role within the force. Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi joined other top officers for the briefing and inspection.
General Kainerugaba’s visit is part of a broader push to strengthen the Air Force through targeted upgrades, improved training systems and streamlined procurement processes. His approach emphasises evaluating modern platforms first-hand to ensure they match the UPDF’s training and operational needs.
The L-39 variant under review is designed to support both pilot instruction and light combat missions, making it a candidate for enhancing the Air Force’s expanding training pipeline.
Should the UPDF proceed with acquisition, the aircraft would add to the ongoing efforts to modernise the service, which has grown significantly from its early days without an air capability.