India plans to market the Yashas armed Intermediate Jet Trainer-36 (IJT-36) to purchasers abroad, focusing on nations looking for an affordable combat trainer for low-intensity operations. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) made this decision in response to major improvements made to the aircraft, formerly known as the Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36) Sitara, which had experienced delays and technical difficulties. This is a component of HAL’s plan to enter the worldwide market for reasonably priced combat trainers. The following are the main details regarding the IJT-36 Yashas and its potential for export:
Significant changes have been made to the Yashas to overcome previous technical problems, such as spin characteristics and departure from controlled flight. It has an updated cockpit, cutting-edge avionics, and less weight because more domestic parts are used. The weight of the aircraft has decreased and its overall capabilities have been improved by the increased use of domestic components.
The aircraft can be used for aerobatics, weapons training, counter-insurgency, counter-surface force operations, and Stage-II pilot training. Up to 1,000 kilograms of weapons can be carried by it.
The Yashas’s FADEC-controlled AL55I jet engine, which is sourced from Saturn-Lyulka, provides a better thrust-to-weight ratio and increased dependability. For better visibility, the design incorporates a drooped nose and a stepped-up rear cockpit.
The Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) and rocket pods are among the 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) of weapons payload that the aircraft can transport.
The Yashas’s upgraded cockpit and cutting-edge avionics improve performance and lessen reliance on external equipment.
The export model will be appropriate for low-intensity combat operations since it can carry sophisticated weapons like rocket pods and the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM).]
Countries looking for an affordable combat trainer for use in less disputed airspace are the objective of HAL. The armed version is intended to be reasonably priced and versatile for light combat operations as well as training.
The Yashas will face off against well-known trainers such as the Leonardo M-346, Aero Vodochody L-39NG, and Korean Aerospace Industries T-50. HAL will highlight the Yashas’s price, capacity for customization, and extensive after-sales service in order to differentiate it.
HAL wants to compete in the worldwide market by utilizing the Yashas’s affordability, customization possibilities, and extensive post-purchase assistance. When necessary, the aircraft can switch from its dual-role training mission to light combat.
An important turning point in the development of Indian-made aircraft was reached with the unveiling of the Yashas at Aero India 2025. The occasion demonstrated the aircraft’s production and export readiness.
