Bengaluru: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) flagship jet training aircraft, the Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36), has been renamed as ‘Yashas’ following comprehensive modifications aimed at improving its departure characteristics and spin resistance across the flight envelope.
Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), formally unveiled the new name at the ongoing Aero India 2025 here on Monday in the presence of Dr DK Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), HAL, and other senior officials.
“The largescale changes to the baseline intermediate training platform have significantly enhanced its capabilities, warranting a new identity that reflects its continued relevance in modern military aviation training. In light of this, the HJT-36 is now named ‘Yashas’,” Dr Sunil said.
The aircraft has undergone extensive upgrades, featuring state-of-the-art avionics and an ultra-modern cockpit to enhance training effectiveness and operational efficiency. These enhancements also contribute to weight reduction and the replacement of obsolete imported components with indigenous Line Replaceable Units (LRUs).
Designed for Stage II pilot training, the Yashas is also capable of counter-insurgency and counter-surface force operations, armament training, and aerobatics. It is powered by a FADEC-controlled AL55I jet engine, which offers an optimised thrust-to-weight ratio, improved thrust management, and enhanced reliability.
The aircraft’s stepped-up rear cockpit and drooped nose design ensure superior all-around visibility, enhancing situational awareness. Additionally, its state-of-the-art glass cockpit features multifunction displays (MFDs) and a head-up display (HUD).
The Yashas boasts capabilities such as stall and spin manoeuvres, aerobatics, and armament carriage of up to 1,000 kg. It is also equipped with a single-point ground refuelling and defuelling system.
