Russia's modernized Yak-130M combat training aircraft will serve as an ideal interceptor for fixed-wing drones, RIA Novosti military commentator Andrey Kots reported on September 21, 2026.
Writing for the Russian state news agency, Kots said the updated jet features a new multifunctional X-band active phased array radar system capable of detecting low-observable airborne targets at distances up to 45 kilometers.
The upgraded aircraft has also been fitted with a suspended SOLT-130K optoelectronic targeting complex designed to detect small unmanned aerial vehicles at ranges between 18 and 25 kilometers. The station can detect standard aircraft at distances up to 65 kilometers. To engage aerial targets, the jet can use S-8L guided rockets or Igla-V air-to-air missiles.
Targeting systems and radar performance
The Yakovlev Yak-130 is a subsonic twin-engine jet trainer and light attack aircraft designed to prepare military pilots for fourth-generation and fifth-generation combat fighters. The modernized Yak-130M variant integrates updated onboard equipment to enhance its surveillance and light combat capabilities against low-flying aerial threats. The X-band active electronically scanned array radar allows high-resolution scanning, while the SOLT-130K optical pod provides electro-optical detection to supplement radar tracking.
For armaments, the S-8L is a laser-guided modification of standard 80mm rockets, enabling high-precision strikes against small targets. The Igla-V is a short-range air-to-air missile system adapted from infantry air defense weapons to provide lightweight intercept capability for subsonic aircraft and helicopters.
Export plans and international demand
The assessment of the jet's interceptor role follows reports earlier in September from Alexander Mikheev, the director general of state arms exporter Rosoboronexport. Mikheev said the Yak-130M is capable of covering the combat aviation requirements of most African nations. Rosoboronexport is Russia's sole official state intermediary for foreign defense sales and international military equipment contracts.
Delivery timeline and manufacturing
Production schedules for the updated aircraft were outlined in July by Vitaly Elagin, the production director of the Irkutsk Aviation Plant. Elagin reported that deliveries of the Yak-130M are scheduled to begin in 2028.
Located in eastern Siberia, the Irkutsk Aviation Plant is one of Russia's primary aircraft manufacturing facilities. The plant manufactures military trainer aircraft and multirole fighters, as well as components for commercial aviation, supplying both the Russian military and international customers.
