Iran has heightened its defense ties with Russia amid the escalating Ukrainian crisis and pivotal regional developments. Tasnim News Agency recently reported that the Iranian Air Force has incorporated Russian-made Yak-130 jet trainers into its fleet.
Recently circulated images confirm the delivery of the Yak-130 advanced jet trainers to the Iranian Air Force. This aircraft, a collaboration between Russia’s Yakovlev and Aermacchi, is a subsonic two-seat jet trainer and a light combat plane.
This advanced addition will enable Iranian military aviators to train for operating 4+ and fifth-generation fighter jets, including the Sukhoi Su-57. The Yak-130, operational since 2011, is also part of the air force arsenals of Russia, Algeria, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Belarus, Myanmar, and Syria. Beyond training, this jet can handle light-attack and surveillance tasks, with its ability to bear a combat load of up to 3,000 kg – a combination of various weaponry, fuel tanks, and electronic modules.
It’s worth highlighting that Iran has previously embarked on developing its indigenous jet trainer, named Yasin. Earlier this year, the nation inaugurated the assembly line for Yasin, a versatile jet capable of executing combat tasks and specialized military missions, including close air support (CAS). The Iranian-designed aircraft boasts domestic innovations like an ejection seat, avionics, engine, and landing gear. Even its airborne weather radar, mounted on the radome, bears the hallmark of Iran’s local expertise.
In a more comprehensive military acquisition strategy, Shahriar Heidari, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, disclosed that the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets ordered from Russia are slated for delivery in early 1402 (starting March 21). This procurement isn’t isolated – Iran’s order list includes Russian air defense systems, missile systems, and helicopters, most expected to arrive shortly. Reportedly, Iran has commissioned 24 of these fourth-generation twin-engine jets, recognized for their air dominance. Many of these will find a home at the Tactical Air Base (TAB) 8, based in Isfahan.
The Sukhoi Su-35, as described by Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), embodies the ideal synergy of a contemporary fighter’s features – including super-maneuverability and extended range – with the strengths of a tactical plane, like a broad weapons spectrum and high combat resilience.
This influx of advanced Russian machinery into Iran’s aerial inventory is remarkable, especially considering Iran’s last significant aircraft acquisition was a few Russian MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters in the 1990s. This defense renewal clearly indicates Iran’s intention to modernize its capabilities against the backdrop of a complex geopolitical landscape.
* Photo provided by the Tansim News Agency.
Source: Gerçek News
