Yak-130M Combat Trainer Jet

Full Specifications

Yak-130M Light Combat Trainer Jet

The Yak-130M represents a significant evolution of Russia’s proven advanced jet trainer into a capable light combat platform. Developed to meet demand for cost-effective multi-role aircraft, it combines pilot training for fourth- and fifth-generation fighters with genuine light-attack, close air support, and counter-drone missions. This dual-role design offers air forces an affordable alternative to heavier, more expensive combat jets while retaining the handling qualities that made the baseline Yak-130 effective for advanced training.

Manufacturer

Manufactured by PJSC Yakovlev (part of the United Aircraft Corporation under Rostec) at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant, the Yak-130M builds directly on the Yak-130 airframe that entered Russian service in 2010. Unveiled as a mock-up in 2024 and achieving its maiden flight on June 25, 2026, the modernized variant incorporates new sensors and weapons integration while preserving the original’s aerodynamic performance and training utility. Three experimental aircraft were planned for testing.

Speed and Range

Powered by two AI-222-25 non-afterburning turbofan engines producing 2,500 kgf of thrust each, the aircraft reaches a maximum speed of approximately Mach 0.9 (around 960–1,060 km/h). It has a service ceiling of 12,500 meters and a ferry range of roughly 1,610 km (extendable to about 2,265 km with external tanks). Combat payload capacity reaches 2,500–3,000 kg across nine external hardpoints.

Key upgrades include the BRLS-130R active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for air-to-air and air-to-ground detection, the SOLT-130K electro-optical/laser targeting system for day/night precision engagement, the President-S130 self-protection suite, and the KSS-130 communications system. Planned armament encompasses short- and beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (such as R-73 and R-77-family weapons), precision-guided air-to-surface munitions, rockets, bombs, and gun pods. These features support missions against ground targets, aerial threats including heavy unmanned aerial vehicles, and training scenarios under all-weather conditions.

Cost / Price

Exact unit cost for the Yak-130M has not been publicly confirmed; the baseline Yak-130 has been reported in the approximate $15 million export range, with the upgraded model expected to command a premium reflecting its enhanced systems. The aircraft remains in the prototype and flight-test phase as of mid-2026 and is positioned primarily for export competitiveness.