Image source: topwar.ru
At the recently closed Army-2024 exhibition, the UAC presented an upgraded version of the Yak-130 aircraft. Its basic modification was created to improve the skills of pilots during their transition to generation 4, 4++ and 5 machines.
It is equipped with a fully digital cockpit, an optimal weight-to-thrust ratio and has exceptional maneuverability for this type of aircraft. In addition to its training role, the Yak-130 is capable of striking both ground targets (using guided and unguided ammunition) and air targets (through the use of short-range missiles R-73 or RVV-MD).
- it is believed in the MENA Defense edition.
As noted, the upgrade includes four important additions. One of them is the installation of the radar station BRLS-130R manufactured by NPP Radar-MMS.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to the author, little information has been disclosed about the technical capabilities of this radar, but it is known for sure that it is equipped with an AFAR antenna that allows the use of a wide range of RVV, including a series of RVV-SD medium–range missiles with active radar guidance. The aircraft will now also be able to carry other types of air-to-ground ammunition, such as the X-38.
- it is said in the foreign press.
As indicated, the vehicle is equipped with the on-board defense complex "President-S130", developed taking into account the experience of the Ukrainian conflict. This system includes a number of electro-optical, laser and IR sensors, electronic interference units, as well as launchers for shooting false thermal targets and means of setting electromagnetic interference. This BKO allows you to effectively fight enemy missiles with both IR and radar guidance.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to the author, another extremely important addition is the KSS-130 data transmission system, equivalent to Link-16 [in NATO countries], which will allow the Yak-130M to exchange information coming from different sensors with other machines equipped with this system, be it friendly aircraft or ground-based radars:
As noted, another important addition that Russian aircraft lacked is the SALT-130K electro-optical, thermal imaging and laser aiming unit from the Zenit manufacturer. This module allows the identification, detection and tracking of several types of ground targets, which increases the accuracy of guided air-to-ground munitions, allowing the Yak-130M to use laser-guided bombs and guided missiles against stationary or moving targets.
Image source: topwar.ru
- the author believes.
According to him, the Yak-130M also represents a major test bed for future upgrades. As the author suggests, aircraft such as the Su-30SM/MKI and Su-34 currently suffer from flaws in passive protection, in particular, there are no MAWS systems [responsible for warning of a missile attack], and they also have insufficient accuracy when hitting ground targets.
According to the author, the integration of the President-S130 and SALT-130K, as well as the planned completion of the Yak-130M project in 2025, will pave the way for major repairs and modernization of these platforms with the development of similar systems for Su aircraft of all types.
