Defence

Iran's Malek-Ashtar University of Technology expects to conduct the first flight of its twin-seat Shafagh trainer late this year, with a first prototype nearing completion.

Also referred to as the M-AT/XXIC and exhibited in model form at last month's Iran air show on Kish Island, the Shafagh is believed to have last year completed mock-up inspection and windtunnel testing. Designed with assistance from Russian industry, the Iranian aircraft resembles Yakovlev's Yak-130 trainer, with large wing root extensions to enable high-angle-of-attack manoeuvres, but has a twin-fin vertical tail and a single engine.

Tehran-based Malek-Ashtar says an engine has already been selected, but declines to name the powerplant. Successful flight testing could lead the Iranian defence ministry to approve the Shafagh for series production, with combat trainer and light fighter variants also under consideration.

Provisionally referred to as the M-ATF, the latter version is viewed as a potential replacement for the Iranian air force's Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II fighters.