Yakovlev Yak-130

Yak-130
A Russian Air Force Yak-130 carrying R-73 short-range air-to-air missiles and rocket pods
General information
TypeLead-in fighter trainer / Light combat aircraft
National originRussia
DesignerYakovlev
Built byIrkut Corporation
Sokol Aircraft Plant
StatusActive
Primary usersRussian Aerospace Forces
Number built219
History
Introduction date19 February 2010
First flight30 April 2004 (2004-04-30)

The Yakovlev Yak-130 (NATO reporting name: Mitten) is a subsonic, two-seat, advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft originally developed by Yakovlev and Aermacchi as the "Yak/AEM-130". It has also been marketed as a potential light-attack aircraft. Development of the aircraft began in 1991. Its maiden flight was conducted in April 1996.

In 2002, it won a Russian government tender for training aircraft, and in 2010, the aircraft entered service with the Russian Air Force. As an advanced training aircraft, the Yak-130 is able to replicate the characteristics of several four-plus generation fighters and the fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57. It can also perform light-attack and reconnaissance duties, carrying a combat load of 3,000 kg (6,600 lb).