Russia’s Yak-130M advanced trainer/light combat aircraft has entered flight testing with a new avionics suite, including an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an electro-optical targeting system and an upgraded self-protection complex.
Developed by Yakovlev as an evolution of the Yak-130, the Yak-130M retains the original airframe and AI-222-25 engines but introduces a substantially revised mission system architecture. The upgrade is intended to expand the aircraft’s role from pilot training towards a light combat platform capable of employing guided weapons.
The most significant addition is the Radar-MMS BРЛС-130Р AESA radar. The installation provides the aircraft with an organic capability to search for, track and engage airborne and surface targets, while also allowing pilots to train with radar-based mission profiles that were previously simulated on the baseline Yak-130.
The aircraft has also received the SOLT-130K electro-optical system, combining television, infrared and laser designation channels for target detection, tracking and weapons guidance, including night operations.
Other changes include the KSS-130 communications and data-exchange system and the President-S130 defensive aids suite, adding threat warning and electronic countermeasure capabilities. These systems expand the aircraft’s training role by introducing procedures associated with modern combat aircraft operations.
Weapons integration has been broadened with the addition of a four-barrel cannon and new multi-lock pylons. The aircraft is designed to employ a wider range of guided air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, while retaining the ability to carry conventional munitions. The manufacturer has highlighted potential use against small aerial targets, including heavy unmanned aerial vehicles.
Two prototype Yak-130M aircraft are currently involved in the flight-test campaign. Deliveries of production aircraft to the Russian Aerospace Forces are scheduled to begin in 2028.
The programme reflects Russia’s effort to extend the operational relevance of the Yak-130 platform by adding combat-oriented sensors and weapons capability without developing a new airframe.
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