Babcock strengthens French defence training with new L-39 Albatros aircraft deal to support the French Test Pilot school (EPNER) .
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Press Release, London, 04 November 2025: We have been awarded a contract to support the French Test Pilot school (EPNER) with a L-39 aircraft – the first for its fleet.
The contract, for flight test training, will see the aircraft used for instruction and evaluation sessions, enabling trainees to assess aircraft performance and flying qualities under realistic operational conditions. It also involves target simulation missions for the Direction Générale de l’Armement – Essais en Vol (DGA EV). The L-39 will be used in adversary simulation roles for flight testing and technical missions, including:
- Training of servicing mechanics for DGA EV
- Refresher training for DGA EV mechanics
- Release flights for EPNER instructors and test pilots already qualified on the L-39
Pierre Basquin, Chief Executive Aviation & CEO France, commented: “EPNER is a world-renowned school of excellence, dedicated to training test pilots, engineers, and technicians involved in flight testing. The partnership reflects Babcock’s commitment to supporting the French armed forces in its critical missions by providing high-performance aerial assets tailored to the demands of training and testing.
“The contract is the first involving our L-39 aircraft and paves the way for further opportunities, particularly in operational training and the training of international pilots.”
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