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UTVA Lasta M95 - Basic and advanced trainer

UTVA Lasta M95
UTVA Lasta M95

Militarymedia.net - The Lasta (Swallow) is a low-wing trainer with a tandem seat, manufactured by UTVA and designed by the military engineering institute (VTI) to meet the requirements of the Yugoslav government. The aircraft is capable of performing basic training, aerobatics, tactical and night flying. It was originally developed as a replacement for the UTVA 75 basic trainer, used by the Yugoslav Air Force. Lasta was commanded by Serbia (15) and Iraq (20).

The first prototype was completed and made its maiden flight in 1985. Substantial changes were made to the prototype and in 1989 a modified version - Lasta 2, was completed. It is a lighter aircraft, with a shorter airframe and new electronic systems.

In the early 1990s, 5 pre-production aircraft were being built, but with the shutdown of Yugoslavia production and further development plans were abandoned. During the 1999 NATO attack on Yugoslavia, all five planes were destroyed during the factory bombing. One damaged aircraft was given to the Yugoslav Aviation Museum.

In 2006 the development of Lasta started again. This new version is known as the Lasta M95. In 2009 it was announced that Iraq would buy 20 of these trainers. The Iraqi Air Force demanded weaponry equipment for free-fall bombs and machine guns. The Lasta M95 has two underwing attachments, capable of carrying a load of 120 kg. The first trainers were sent to Iraq in 2010.

Serbia ordered 15 of these aircraft. The Serbian version has advanced electronics. The cockpit is fully digital so it can be compatible with new multi-role fighters, which will replace the aging MiG-21 fleet.

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