Russia Builds First Prototype of Yak-130M Combat Trainer Aircraft

The United Aircraft Corporation of the Rostec State Corporation has completed the construction of the first prototype of the modernized Yak-130M combat trainer aircraft.

The work was carried out as part of a research and development project at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant. Currently, the aircraft is being sent to the ground and flight test phase, while two more wings are being assembled, according to United Aircraft Corporation.

The aircraft is being developed by Yakovlev. During the ground tests, new and modernized systems will be tested to confirm the declared technical characteristics.

The corporation notes that the modernization will make it possible to arm Yak-130M with air-to-air missiles and air-to-surface weapons with satellite and laser guidance systems.

The basis for the new modification is the Yak-130 combat trainer. As noted, the updated aircraft will be able to perform tasks both during the day and at night.

In particular, the aircraft is equipped with a new BRLS-130R airborne radar station, an optical laser thermal imaging system SOLT-130K, the President-S130 defense system and modern KSS-130 communications.

After completion of ground tests, the first Yak-130M is expected to be prepared for a test flight.