Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially unveiled the upgraded Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36), now renamed ‘Yashas,’ at the Aero India 2025 event. This milestone follows extensive modifications to address critical departure characteristics and spin resistance across the aircraft’s operational envelope. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is expected to receive an initial batch of four to five upgraded trainers.
While the IAF has yet to place a formal order for the ‘Yashas,’ sources at Aero India 2025 have indicated that HAL will provide the upgraded trainers for evaluation. “The IAF places no official order for the upgraded machines, however, HAL will give the trainer aircraft for IAF to use, and once the end user is satisfied, there is a possibility of an order being placed for more trainers,” confirmed a senior official.
The renaming ceremony took place at Aero India 2025. Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), unveiled the new name in the presence of Dr. D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of HAL, and senior HAL officials. The rebranding signifies a leap in the trainer’s capabilities and enhanced relevance for modern military training.
The flagship jet training aircraft of HAL, Hindustan Jet Trainer, HJT-36, is now renamed as ‘Yashas’ after extensive modifications to resolve departure characteristics & spin resistance throughout the aircraft envelope. pic.twitter.com/T0ETEJBRTE
— HAL (@HALHQBLR) February 10, 2025
Major Upgrades and Enhancements
According to HAL, substantial technical advancements have transformed the HJT-36 into ‘Yashas’, improving its performance and operational utility. These modifications have rectified issues related to the aircraft’s departure characteristics and spin resistance, ensuring its adaptability to evolving military training needs.
D.K. Sunil elaborated on these upgrades during the unveiling: “The large-scale changes to the baseline intermediate training platform have led to significant enhancements in its capabilities. This provided an opportunity for a new name to reflect the aircraft’s continued relevance as a training system for modern military aviation.”
The upgraded ‘Yashas’ incorporates advanced technology to enhance training efficiency and operational effectiveness. It features a state-of-the-art glass cockpit with multi-functional displays (MFDs) and a heads-up display (HUD) for improved situational awareness, allowing pilots to monitor critical flight data precisely. The modernized avionics facilitate seamless integration of Indian Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), reducing reliance on imported components. Powered by a FADEC-controlled AL55I jet engine, it boasts a superior thrust-to-weight ratio and high reliability. Aerodynamic improvements, such as a stepped-up rear cockpit and drooped nose, enhance visibility during flight operations. Designed for Stage II pilot training, the ‘Yashas’ supports specialized operations including counter-insurgency and can carry up to 1,000 kg of payload. Additionally, features like single-point ground refuelling and defueling streamline operations, enhancing readiness and minimizing turnaround time.
The ‘Yashas’ represents a pivotal addition to India’s defence training infrastructure, poised to shape the future of military aviation training. With its enhanced design, advanced features, and operational versatility, the aircraft is set to become a cornerstone of the IAF’s pilot training programs.
HAL’s continued focus on refining and upgrading the ‘Yashas’ underscores its commitment to supporting India’s national defence needs and advancing its aviation capabilities. As the IAF evaluates the aircraft, the ‘Yashas’ holds the potential to secure a broader role in India’s defence ecosystem, ensuring the readiness and skill of the nation’s future military pilots.
Ravi Shankar
