Yashas

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Hindustan Jet Trainer HJT-36a has been renamed Yashas after extensive modifications to improve departure characteristics and spin resistance, earlier called Sitara.

• About Reason for Renaming: Due to large-scale enhancements in capabilities, the aircraft has been given a new name, signifying its continued relevance in modern military aviation.
• Recent Upgrades: State-of-the-art avionics and an ultra-modern cockpit for improved training effectiveness and operational efficiency.

o Weight reduction and replacement of obsolete imported equipment with Indian Line Replaceable Units (LRUs).

• Capabilities: Suitable for Stage II pilot training, counter-insurgency, counter-surface force operations, armament training, and aerobatics.

o Can perform stall and spin maneuvers, aerobatics, armament carriage up to 1000kg, and single-point ground refueling & defueling.

• Engine & Cockpit Features: Powered by a FADEC-controlled AL55I Jet engine, offering high thrust-to-weight ratio and optimized thrust management.

o Features a stepped-up rear cockpit with a drooped nose for enhanced situational awareness and all-around vision.