Russia Air Force armament program envisages the purchase of 250 to 300 Yak-130 training aircraft.

Alexei Fedorov, CEO, IRKUT Corp, opines that the enhancing of the Yak-130’s combat performances will seriously expand its market. He says that many countries, who are involved in local conflicts or anticipating such potential development, are keen to have in their inventory attack plane, which is armed with three tons of armory and capable to use guided weaponry.

Nowadays Yak-130 is fitted for using guided bombs with caliber up to 500 kg, aerial bombs and rockets. For engaging air targets, Yak-130 is armed with the R-73 short-range guided missiles with up to 20 km range of engaging targets.

For enhancing the Yak-130’s armory an option of its equipment with the optic-electronic aiming system is being considered. It will enable to use thermal-imaging and laser weaponry. As Mr. Fedorov says, on the next stage of the trainer’s development, the radar may be installed. Combat capabilities of Yak-130 could be enhanced by installing the in-flight refueling system.

Experts believe that light combat aircraft will be in demand because of increasing number of low-intensity conflicts and anti-terrorist operations worldwide. Being equipped with modern aiming systems, these aircraft will be efficient enough for fighting helicopters, transport planes and unmanned aerial vehicles.