The new Russian Yak-130M combat trainer has attracted the interest of several potential foreign customers. These include Kazakhstan, Algeria, Iran, and Indonesia, according to Military Watch Magazine.

The main difference between the Yak-130M and the earlier version is its new onboard equipment. The aircraft received a radar station and an optoelectronic-laser thermal-television observation and targeting system, SOLT-130K.

It is the enhanced onboard electronics that change the machine's purpose. The Yak-130M retains its capabilities as a combat trainer but gains equipment that allows it to be used as a more complete light combat platform.

Alexander Mikheev, CEO of Rosoboronexport, announced the first contract for Yak-130M deliveries a few days ago. However, the aircraft has not yet been certified; it is undergoing a series of flight tests, which are planned to be completed only by December 2028.