Aero L-29 Delfin / Maya

Aero L-29 Delfin / Mayan History

The Czech-designed and produced Aero L-29 Delfin series (translated as "Dolphin"; NATO named "Maya") was a Cold War jet trainer heavily used by the Soviet Union and its satellite states. The two-seater was traveling at more than 400 mph and reached an altitude of more than 36,000 feet.

L-29s were mass-produced until 1974, and many of them are still in service with weaker military units around the world.

The single-engine Performer was built from two prototypes, designated the XL-29 - one with the British Bristol Sidley Viper turbojet and the other with the indigenous M 701 turbojet. Further development saw three-way competition with the Yak-30 design and the PZL Mielec TS-11 Iskra, with the L-29 coming out on top (however, Poland will continue to use the TS-11 trainer).

From there, the L-29 system will be used as the first jet trainer for the countries of the Soviet bloc.

With two available underwing hardpoints, a light fighter capable of carrying gun pods, dropping bombs and missiles was developed. Specialized stunt performers were also developed from the existing L-29 base airframe, with a total production of more than 3,600 of the entire L-29 family.

Specification

Basic

Production

Roles

Dimensions

Weight

Performance

Performance

Armor

Changes