Belarus has signed a contract with Russia for the supply of four Yak-130 trainer jets 1912121.

A subsonic two-seat aircraft, the Yak-130, also known by its NATO reporting name Mitten, the pilot training plane is said to be also able to perform light-attack and reconnaissance duties, carrying a combat load of 3,000 kilograms. The aircraft boasts excellent maneuverability and state-of-the-art on-board electronic equipment, high reliability and a long service life.

Irkut Corporation has recently contracted to deliver 65 Yaks-130 to Russia's Air Force. Belarus has become the first CIS member states to buy the aircraft.

The Presidet of Belarus, Mister Alyaksandr Lukashenka, announced this past September that Russia would supply Belarus with modern planes for guarding the border.

"We have common air defences," Lukashenka said after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on 21 September. "We discussed many air force issues. I asked for support and I got it. We will soon get modern planes for keeping watch on the border."