The Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to be upgraded under a plan – ‘Super Sukhoi Upgrade’ that will include completely new avionics, radars, and electronic warfare suites.
Noteworthy, the upgrade plan is likely to cost Rs 60,000 crore approximately and will touch all aspects of the fighter jet except for its airframe and engines.
Further, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be the lead agency for the upgrade in partnership with the IAF and other various Indian companies.
To be noted over the years India had ordered around 272 of the Su-30MKI fighter jets from Russia that form the backbone of the IAF’s fighter fleet.
Noteworthy, the ‘Super Sukhoi’ upgrade has been in the works for several years as the aircraft have been in service for two decades and need to be modernised to current standards.
Talks on the upgrade have been on with Russia since at least 2017, with India looking at maximising indigenous systems on the aircraft.
It has been reported that the upgrade is likely to include enhanced beyond visual range capability, new electronic warfare suites and a new radar.
Also, recently, in September 2023 an order for 12 more Su-30 MKI combat jets has also been given clearance by the Ministry of Defence for Rs 11,000 crore.
These jets will be manufactured by HAL with indigenous content of over 60%.
Besides, these would be the most modern Su-30MKI aircraft of the IAF equipped with multiple Indian weapons and sensors.
