Russia is developing a new combat aircraft based on the Yak-130, a design originally created as a training plane.
Never Intended for Combat
The Yak-130 was never intended for combat, but Moscow is now repurposing it to fill the void left by the discontinued production of the Sukhoi Su-25, a long-serving Russian ground attack aircraft. This decision is raising concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the new model.
The Yak-130, which bears a striking resemblance to the M-346 trainer aircraft used in Poland, was initially designed through a collaboration between Russia's Yakovlev design bureau and Italy’s Aermacchi, according to WP.
The two companies later parted ways, and each developed its own version of the aircraft. While the Italian M-346 evolved into a capable trainer, the Russian version is now being adapted for combat missions.
Unsuitable for Warfar
Experts have expressed concerns about this new development.
A decade ago, Russia rejected the idea of turning the Yak-130 into a combat aircraft, citing its delicate construction as unsuitable for warfare.
However, with the loss of at least 33 Su-25 aircraft during the conflict in Ukraine, and no feasible replacement from unmanned aerial vehicles, Russia is left with few options but to modify the Yak-130 into a combat variant called the Yak-130M.
Although equipped with modern radar and the ability to carry up to three tons of weaponry, the Yak-130M’s capabilities are expected to be limited. Its small payload and short range may hinder its effectiveness in battle, especially compared to other combat aircraft.
Despite these limitations, Russia is moving forward, hoping this adaptation will help offset its depleting air fleet.
