Super Sukhoi -30MKI Production to start with 12-Unit
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a multi-role fighter developed by Russia in collaboration with HAL for the IAF. It is designed for air superiority and deep interdiction missions.
The twin-seat, twin-engine aircraft features canards to improve lift and manoeuvrability. Powered by two AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines, it reaches a maximum speed of Mach 2 and has a combat range of 3,000 km, extendable to 5,200 km with in-flight refuelling.
Its advanced avionics include a TV guidance system and enhanced navigation suite, enabling it to operate in all weather conditions and under radar jamming.
The Su-30MKI is a formidable fighter, with 12 hardpoints supporting over 8,000 kg of payload.
It carries a 30 mm GSh-301 cannon and a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including laser, TV, and infrared-guided munitions like the Kh-29, Kh-31, and Kh-59.
The aircraft is equipped with an indigenous AESA radar and an electronic warfare suite featuring Indian and Israeli technologies, as well as the DRDO-developed Tarang radar warning system, providing robust defensive and offensive capabilities for various combat missions.
Sanction has already been accorded for upgrading around 72 to 90 jets of most recent vintage into Super Sukhois with various up gradations. Presently IAF has 15 Squadrons of these formidable fighters.
However out of 272 aircrafts around 12 have been lost in various mishaps. Therefore orders have been issued to HAL to resume production of the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets of super Sukhoi standard at its Nashik plant, with an initial order for 12 units valued at approximately INR 11000 Crores.
This decision comes as part of efforts to replenish the fleet following losses and to further enhance domestic defence manufacturing capabilities.
The production is expected to streamline operations over the next three years, with deliveries aimed at bolstering India’s air capabilities significantly. The up gradation of 90 jets too will be commencing alongside.
Now IAF needs 45 squadrons as of yesterday and around 54 Squadrons as of today. However delay in supply chain of GE 414 engines and coming in of indigenous Kaveri engine, in addition to the immediate order, HAL may be asked to produce an additional 72 Su-30MKI fighters of super Sukhoi standard, which would bring the total fleet to over 344 aircraft by 2029-30.
Super Sukhoi will have an indigenous AESA radar for improved detection and jamming.Advanced indigenous avionics and other systems developed in India will be over key feature.
These avionics will enhance operation flexibility by several notches.The cooperation with Russia aligns with both nations’ interests.
For Russia, these partnerships strengthen its position as a leading arms supplier and provide access to new markets.
For India, working with Russia enables development of a robust domestic defence industrial base.While maintaining close ties with Russia, India has also developed defence partnerships with the United States, France, and Israel.
This strategy aims to reduce dependence on a single supplier, and maximize strategic benefits on the international stage.
