Yak-130 Fighter Jet Joins Iran’s Military Drill for the First Time
WANA (Feb 24) – In a significant milestone for Iran’s Air Force, the Yak-130 fighter jet participated in a joint aerial operation for the first time during the “Zolfaghar 2025″ military exercises, demonstrating its advanced and unique capabilities.
Joint Air Operation Successfully Conducted
According to Brigadier General Alireza Sheikh, the spokesperson for the Zolfaghar 2025 drills, the Yak-130 fighter jet took part in an interception mission alongside two MiG-29 fighter jets. The operation involved detecting, tracking, and neutralizing a target drone.
“The MiG-29 pilots successfully identified and pursued the target drone, and the Yak-130 completed the mission by launching advanced missiles, completely destroying the drone,” Sheikh stated. He emphasized that the operation showcased the Air Force’s high level of coordination and capability in executing complex aerial missions.
A Milestone for Iran’s Air Force
The spokesperson highlighted that the Yak’s first appearance in the drills marked a turning point in demonstrating the Air Force’s growing capabilities. “With its modern design and advanced operational features, the Yak-130 delivered an impressive performance in its debut,” he added.
Sheikh further noted that the inclusion of the Yak-130 in the Zolfaghar 1403 exercises reflects the Air Force’s significant advancements in fleet modernization and the integration of cutting-edge technology. “This fighter jet enhances our ability to counter emerging threats and strengthens our overall aerial defense,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of joint operations, Sheikh concluded, “The successful participation of the Yak-130 in these drills signals its broader deployment in future missions, reinforcing the country’s defense capabilities.”
For the first time, images of a drone being destroyed by a Yak-130 #fighter jet during the joint Zolfaghar 1403 military #drill of the #IranianArmy have been released#Yak130 pic.twitter.com/ITnUTDgCD2
— WANA News Agency (@WANAIran) February 24, 2025