The Hungarian government has put plans forward to modernize its air force, it has been revealed.
Technical modernization of the air force is a priority goal within the armed forces’ technical development program, the chief of staff said.
According to MTI, four Zlin light training and reconnaissance aircraft have already been purchased to replace outdated Yak-52 training aircraft and tendering is already under way for the acquisition of another four Zlins, Tibor Benkő said.
Benkő added that a general overhaul of Mi-17 transport helicopters and Mi-24 attack helicopters has partly been carried out and will continue. Plans are also in motion to purchase new or almost new helicopters.
Radars and anti-aircraft radar units will also need to be modernized in order to efficiently complement the Gripens’ abilities to protect Hungarian airspace, reports suggest.
Benkő also said Hungary’s air force has stood the test in the Fire Blade 2017, Load Diffuser 2017 and Saber Guardian 2017 exercises and will also be involved in the upcoming Carpathian Hawk 2017 exercise.