The HESA Shafaq is an Iranian subsonic stealth aircraft project developed by HESA, intended as a trainer and light attack aircraft.
The HESA Shafaq, translating to “Before the Dawn,” is an Iranian subsonic stealth aircraft project developed by the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company (HESA). Designed as a trainer and light attack aircraft, it features a diamond-shaped wing configuration and twin outward-canted vertical stabilizers. The aircraft is powered by a single turbofan engine, with plans for three variants: a two-seat trainer, a two-seat light attack version, and a single-seat fighter-bomber. The Shafaq incorporates radar-absorbing materials to enhance its stealth capabilities. As of now, only a prototype has been built, and the project remains in development.
History of Development
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Iran sought to modernize its air force, which relied heavily on aging aircraft from the pre-revolution era. The need for a domestically produced aircraft became evident due to difficulties in procuring advanced military hardware from abroad. In response, the Aviation University Complex, part of the Malek Ashtar University of Technology, initiated the Shafaq project, with HESA responsible for manufacturing. The program aimed to develop a fourth-generation aircraft capable of fulfilling training and light attack roles. A full-scale mock-up was presented at the Iran Airshow in 2005, showcasing the design’s unique features. Despite initial forecasts for a first flight in 2017, the Shafaq has yet to achieve this milestone, and development continues.
Design
The Shafaq features a diamond-shaped wing configuration, providing enhanced maneuverability and aerodynamic efficiency. Its twin outward-canted vertical stabilizers contribute to reduced radar cross-section, aligning with its stealth objectives. The aircraft is powered by a single turbofan engine, with reports suggesting the use of the Klimov RD-33, offering a thrust of approximately 50 kN (11,000 lbf). The cockpit is designed for tandem seating in the two-seat variants, accommodating a pilot and either an instructor or weapons systems officer. The use of radar-absorbing materials in the airframe construction aims to minimize detectability by enemy radar systems.
Performance
While specific performance metrics are limited due to the prototype stage of development, the Shafaq is intended to operate at subsonic speeds, with a focus on agility and low observability. The service ceiling is projected to be around 16,780 meters (55,050 feet), with a rate of climb estimated at 110 meters per second (22,000 feet per minute). The aircraft’s design emphasizes versatility, allowing it to perform both training missions and light attack operations effectively.
Variants
The Shafaq program envisions three primary variants:
- Two-Seat Trainer: Designed for advanced pilot training, featuring tandem seating and dual controls.
- Two-Seat Light Attack: Equipped with weapon systems for ground attack missions, retaining the tandem seating arrangement.
- Single-Seat Fighter-Bomber: Optimized for combat operations, with increased payload capacity and advanced avionics.
Military Use and Combat
As of now, the Shafaq remains in the prototype stage and has not been deployed in active military service. Consequently, it has not participated in any combat operations or missions. The aircraft is designed to carry a variety of armaments, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground munitions, and a built-in cannon, enabling it to perform both defensive and offensive roles. The Shafaq is intended to complement existing aircraft in the Iranian fleet, providing a modern platform for training and light attack missions. There is no information available regarding export sales or adoption by other countries.
The HESA Shafaq represents Iran’s endeavor to develop an indigenous subsonic stealth aircraft capable of fulfilling training and light attack roles. Its unique design features, including the diamond-shaped wing and use of radar-absorbing materials, align with modern stealth principles. While still in development, the Shafaq holds the potential to enhance Iran’s military aviation capabilities, contributing to greater self-reliance in defense technology.
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