New member in IAF! After 28 years From Sitara to Yashas: HAL’s HJT-36 Trainer Aircraft Ready for Service
- India News On Russia South Asia
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 6 minutes read
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially reintroduced the Hindustan Jet Trainer-36 (HJT-36), previously known as Sitara, under its new name—“Yashas.” This renaming follows extensive modifications to enhance the aircraft’s performance, making it a crucial addition to the Indian Air Force (IAF) training fleet. After nearly three decades of development and overcoming multiple technical hurdles, HAL has successfully delivered an advanced jet trainer that is now leased to the IAF. The HJT-36 Yashas has been designed to serve various roles, making it a versatile asset for pilot training and light combat operations. Its primary functions include:
- Stage 2 Pilot Training – Providing advanced flight training for pilots transitioning from basic trainers to fighter aircraft.
- Counter-Insurgency and Surface Force Operations – Equipped for limited combat roles against ground-based threats.
- Aerobatics, Armament Training, and More – Supports aerial manoeuvres, weapon training, and other operational roles essential for combat readiness.
Initial Design and Early Development (1997-2004)
- Work on the HJT-36 Sitara started in 1997, and HAL received government approval in July 1999 to build two prototypes at a budget of ₹180 crores.
- The prototype (PT-1) completed its maiden flight on March 7, 2003, followed by the second prototype (PT-2) in March 2004.
- The aircraft was expected to receive Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) by 2006-2007, but development faced significant setbacks due to design issues.
Setbacks and Technological Roadblocks (2010-2022)
- Limited series production began in 2010, but the aircraft was deemed unfit for service by the IAF due to severe aerodynamic issues.
- Major technical failure:
- Spin Recovery Issue – The aircraft failed to recover from spins, a critical requirement for a trainer aircraft.
- HAL struggled with this problem for years, delaying further development.
Major Design Overhaul and Breakthrough (2022-2025)
- HAL made significant design changes to overcome spin recovery issues, improve safety, and enhance operational capabilities.
- The aircraft now features:
- Upgraded cockpit design for improved pilot training.
- AI-powered voice command system to assist pilots.
- Enhanced aerodynamics to eliminate previous stall issues.
One of the biggest advancements in the HJT-36 Yashas program is HAL’s licensed production of the AL-55I engine, which powers the aircraft. This marks a major step in India’s self-reliance in aerospace manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign engine suppliers. The upgraded HJT-36 Yashas has been officially leased to the Indian Air Force, marking a successful comeback for the project. With its improved flight characteristics, advanced technology, and multi-role capability, Yashas is now poised to become a key component of India’s military aviation training. Despite years of delays, technological setbacks, and redesigns, HAL has successfully revived the HJT-36 project with the Yashas aircraft. This modern jet trainer will play a crucial role in training the next generation of IAF pilots while also providing limited combat support capabilities. The successful resolution of spin recovery issues and the start of AL-55I engine production signal a new chapter in India’s aerospace development, reinforcing its goal of self-reliance in defence technology.
