New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially renamed its flagship jet training aircraft, the Hindustan Jet Trainer HJT-36, as ‘Yashas’ following extensive modifications aimed at enhancing its performance and operational efficiency. The new name was unveiled by the Ministry of Defence's Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar in the presence of HAL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Dr DK Sunil and senior officials at Aero India 2025.
According to Dr Sunil, the substantial modifications to the aircraft warranted a new identity, reflecting its enhanced capabilities and continued relevance as a modern military training system. “The large-scale changes to the baseline intermediate training platform have significantly improved its capabilities, offering a renewed scope for advanced pilot training. In light of this, HJT-36 is now named ‘Yashas,’” he stated.
As part of its preparation for induction into service, ‘Yashas’ has been upgraded with state-of-the-art avionics and a modernized cockpit, improving training effectiveness and operational efficiency. The enhancements include weight reduction measures and the replacement of obsolete imported equipment with indigenous Line Replaceable Units (LRUs).
Designed for Stage II pilot training, the aircraft is also capable of counter-insurgency and counter-surface force operations, armament training, and aerobatic maneuvers. It is powered by a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC)-equipped AL55I jet engine, delivering an optimal thrust-to-weight ratio, improved thrust management, and enhanced reliability.
The aircraft features a stepped-up rear cockpit with a drooped nose, ensuring superior visibility and situational awareness. The state-of-the-art glass cockpit integrates multifunction displays (MFDs) and a head-up display (HUD) for advanced operational functionality. Additionally, ‘Yashas’ is equipped for stall and spin recovery, aerobatics, armament carriage up to 1,000 kg, and single-point ground refueling and defueling capabilities.
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