The modernized Yak-130M adds radar, sensors, and self-defense capabilities to transition from advanced training to light combat day/night and in all weather conditions.
Summary
United Aircraft Corporation and Rostec have unveiled the Yak-130M, an evolution of the Yak-130 designed to retain advanced training capabilities while adding genuine light combat capabilities. The prototype, assembled in Irkutsk, is undergoing ground testing prior to flight testing. Two additional aircraft are currently being assembled. The upgrade includes a BRLS-130R AESA radar, a SOLT-130K electro-optical sight (IR/TV/laser), a President-S130 self-protection suite, and KSS-130 communications. The operational objective is twofold: training 4th/5th generation fighter pilots and armed use with guided munitions (laser/satellite), including drone interception. In the background, Moscow insists on “in-house” integration of subsystems to limit exposure to sanctions. While the Yak-130’s basic performance remains that of a subsonic trainer (Mach 0.93; payload 2.5–3 t; nine hardpoints), the addition of sensors, radar, and an EW suite makes it credible for day/night all-weather operations from secondary runways. The economic angle will be scrutinized: compared to competitors such as the M-346FA, armed L-39NG, and Hurjet, the Russian gamble is aimed at controlling total cost for forces seeking a “2-in-1” solution (training + armed action) with largely nationalized support.
The industrial announcement and program framework
The Russian manufacturer is setting the bar on a gradual and measurable increase in capacity. The first milestone is a Yak-130M prototype ready for ground testing at the Irkutsk factory, with two additional airframes in production. This limited but real pace indicates an experimental program designed to lock in sensor/weapon integration before moving on to “small series” production for Russian forces and existing export customers. The core message is to “transform without distorting” the aircraft. It remains a two-seat trainer with fly-by-wire controls and on-board simulation, but it is being equipped with “mission” capabilities that go beyond its training role.
Technically, the Yak-130 legacy provides a robust foundation: two AI-222-25 turbojets, maximum takeoff weight of around 10.3 tons, nine hardpoints, and the ability to operate from less prepared surfaces thanks to air intake protections. The space available in the nose and under the fuselage, previously dedicated to training avionics, can now accommodate radar, optronic balls, and secure communications. The philosophy is clear: do not seek speed or stealth, but build a versatile “brick” with low cycle costs, usable by forces that cannot and have no interest in deploying heavy fighters everywhere and all the time.
Operationally, Rostec is highlighting two immediate priorities. On the one hand, more credible training in modern sensors: active antenna radar, long-range FLIR, laser telemetry, and electronic warfare management. On the other hand, “realistic” but economical armed scenarios: guided rocket fire, satellite/laser-guided bombs, short-range air-to-air missiles, close support in poor weather conditions, and above all, “anti-drone policing.” In a context where swarm attacks, loitering munitions, and MALE UAVs are on the rise, having a low-cost platform capable of intercepting, degrading, or channeling these threats makes pragmatic sense.
The sensor suite and mission architecture: radar, optronics, and self-protection
The modernization revolves around four building blocks. The BRLS-130R, announced as an AESA radar, provides medium-range air-to-air detection and air-to-ground modes (mapping, terrain tracking according to profiles, detection of moving targets). Compared to a “bare” trainer, this is a major leap forward: training moves from VFR/IFR navigation and basic BFM exercises to comprehensive sensor training, similar to that of a modern fighter jet. In terms of weaponry, AESA is used for illumination, multi-track tracking, and conditioning for IR or radar homing missiles, even though the typical payload will remain limited by weight and drag.
The SOLT-130K combines stabilized infrared and TV channels and a laser designator. This is the key to precision strikes: 70 mm laser-guided rockets, 250–500 kg bombs with laser kits, and even designation for cooperative firing. Day/night firing, even in low ceilings, is a quantum leap for an aircraft designed as a “trainer.” IR also allows for the discreet detection of small UAVs at short range, particularly through thermal contrast at dusk.
The President-S130 suite provides a survival umbrella. It combines warning detectors (radar, laser, missile approach), decoy launchers, and IR/RF jamming. On a non-stealth aircraft that can fly low and slow, this layer is vital: MANPADS, cannons, and short-range missiles are the most plausible threats. Finally, KSS-130 provides communications and data links: exchange of radar/optronic tracks, mission messages, and possibly COM relays for other units. Together, these systems make the promise of “24/7, bad weather” credible. For a user country, this means realistic sensor training and “second line” operational missions without consuming the hours of front-line fighters.
The dual concept: from advanced training to light combat
The industrial challenge is to offer a continuum. During the week, the aircraft trains students in sensor management and data fusion, with on-board simulation and telemetry scenarios. On weekends, the same airframe, with EW pods and live payloads, performs armed patrols, anti-UAV alerts, support in marginal weather conditions, or opportunity strikes with guided munitions. The engagement threshold is calibrated: there is no question of sending a light subsonic aircraft against a layered defense. On the other hand, against irregular groups, low- to medium-value targets, or drone incursions at 2,000–4,000 m, the cost savings become attractive.
Let’s crunch the numbers. With a payload of 2.5–3 tons and nine hardpoints, we can imagine: two auxiliary fuel tanks + an optronic ball + four 70 mm guided rockets + two 250 kg guided bombs; or a short-range air-to-air patrol with two IR missiles, two fuel tanks, and an EW pod. Typical range in mixed profile: a few hundred kilometers, depending on fuel reserve and altitude. Speed: nearly 1,060 km/h (Mach 0.93). Ceiling: approximately 12–13 km. In an “anti-drone” mission, the AESA radar helps detect low radar cross-section targets, the IR identifies them, and the laser guides a rocket or prepares a coordinated fire. Student training is precisely tailored to these “sensor-shooter” chains, including EW management and simulated failures.
In terms of training, the advantage is clear: instead of switching early on to a more expensive fighter to “see” the latest generation of radar and IR, the cycle is extended by 30–60 hours on a two-seater that costs less per hour. This frees up slots on front-line fleets and reduces the total cost of ownership for a class.
Costs, the market, and comparison with competitors
Firm prices, subject to sanctions and confidential contracts, remain fluid. Historically, an export Yak-130 has frequently cost between $15 million and $25 million (€14–23 million) per unit, depending on options and volumes. The Yak-130M version, with radar, EW, sighting system, and communications, will logically increase the unit price and, above all, the initial package (simulators, tools, parts, test benches). For a squadron of 12, pilot and technician training, documentation, and training ammunition stocks must be added. In terms of operation, the flight time of a two-seater subsonic aircraft of this size is generally significantly lower than that of a heavy fighter; the “2-in-1” switch (training + armed use) can thus compensate for a higher purchase price than a “bare” trainer.
Compared to the Italian M-346FA, the Turkish Hurjet, or an armed L-39NG, the Russian proposal puts forward four arguments: “native” integration of an AESA radar, a complete EW suite, a range of inexpensive Russian guided munitions, and a declared capability to intercept small UAVs. There are counterarguments: access to certain technologies and spare parts under sanctions, avionics certification according to Western standards, and limited interoperability with NATO networks. For users already equipped with Russian equipment, logistical consistency favors the Yak-130M; for others, the political equation and NATO standardization will push them towards the M-346FA/Hurjet.
The addressable market is therefore twofold: current Yak-130 customers wishing to “beef up” their fleet at a controlled cost; countries seeking an additional armed patrol and a realistic sensor curriculum without purchasing an expensive multi-role fighter. In both cases, the central issue will remain MCO performance (engines, sensors, EW) and the ability to provide upgrade kits over 10–15 years.
Tactical implications: anti-UAV, attrition, and dispersion
The most direct signal concerns anti-UAV. Recent conflicts have shown that air combat is no longer limited to intercepting enemy jets. Slow, small targets, sometimes in swarms, must be neutralized. A subsonic two-seater with AESA radar, stabilized IR, and 70 mm laser-guided rockets represents a low-cost solution for dealing with drones 30–200 km from base. The cost per shot of a guided rocket is much lower than that of an air-to-air missile. The aircraft can also act as a “sensor van”: clearing up doubts, marking out an area, guiding ground artillery or short-range surface-to-air fire.
Another tactical angle: dispersion. A robust landing gear, FOD protection on air intakes, and limited ground requirements allow it to be used on rough terrain. For a force that wants to expand its presence without overloading its main bases, the Yak-130M adds a relevant building block: local patrols, helicopter escort, route security, and ad hoc support. In a logic of attrition, wearing down an adversary by forcing them to react to multiple low-cost “stings” is consistent. Survivability remains an issue: when faced with modern ground-to-air defenses, a non-stealth subsonic aircraft requires up-to-date intelligence, EW, and very cautious profiles (low flight, terrain masking, brief windows).
Finally, in terms of training, the aircraft now features a modern sensor curriculum that anchors the progression to 4th/5th generation fighters. Students learn to manage radar, IR, laser, and EW tracks and to work in a network. The transition to a front-line fighter is made with already mature reflexes, saving precious hours on more expensive airframes.
Sustainability and limitations: logistics, signature, and doctrine
The “all-weather” promise relies on a solid logistics chain. The BRLS-130R and SOLT-130K require specialized maintenance resources, regular calibrations, and dedicated spare parts. The President-S130 suite involves consumables (decoys, IR/RF cartridges) and pre-flight system checks. Actual availability will depend on the quality of the batches delivered, access to electronic components, and the resilience of suppliers. Russian communications emphasize domestic production, which is consistent with the goal of reducing dependence, but this requires regular volumes to amortize the production lines.
In terms of employment, the limitation is doctrinal. The Yak-130M is not a replacement for either a front-line multirole fighter or a dedicated armored attack aircraft. Its value lies primarily in sensor training and “support” armed tasks. Used outside this range, it would become vulnerable and costly in terms of losses. The challenge for a military command is to write procedures that take advantage of its strengths: secondary airfields, financial availability, numerous short patrols, economical firing, and close-range electronic warfare. Effectiveness will come from the quantity of effects produced for a sustainable cost, not from individual exploits.
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