Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is planning to turn an older version of its HJT-36 Yashas trainer jet into a light attack aircraft. This idea comes as many countries are looking for affordable aircraft to carry out counter-terrorism missions in safe airspaces.

HAL May Turn HJT-36 Trainer Jet into Light Attack Aircraft for Export

According to sources, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is thinking about turning an older prototype of its HJT-36 Yashas jet trainer into a light attack aircraft. 

This idea is mainly aimed at the export market, where there’s growing demand for low-cost planes that can be used in counter-terrorism operations, especially in areas with little to no enemy air threats.

The HJT-36 Yashas was originally developed as a Stage-II trainer to replace the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) outdated Kiran MkII jets. 

It has five hardpoints (one under the body and four under the wings) and can carry up to 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) of weapons or equipment. 

This setup makes it suitable for being turned into a light attack aircraft.

HAL is considering arming the plane with short-range air-to-air missiles like the ASRAAM or R-73. 

These missiles would allow the jet to engage in close-range combat, increasing its usefulness in light attack missions. 

However, there are some technical challenges. For example, the jet’s nose is too small to fit a large radar, which limits the use of advanced, radar-guided weapons.

Even though it’s not impossible to make these upgrades, it would require smart engineering to work around the aircraft’s design limitations.

Right now, HAL’s main goal is to get the IAF’s approval to use the HJT-36 as a regular trainer jet. 

They want to finish its development and have it replace the Kiran MkII jets in service. Only after that will they focus on creating the light attack version for other countries.

Experts believe that for this export plan to succeed, HAL must first complete the aircraft’s development and ramp up production. 

Only then will it grab the attention of potential international buyers.