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India to Strengthen Its Combat Air Power with New Locally-made Su-30MKI Fighter Jets.
On December 13, 2024, the Indian Ministry of Defence announced the signing of a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production of 12 new Su-30MKI fighter jets, aimed at strengthening the capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This acquisition, valued at approximately 1.3 billion USD (13.5 billion rupees), is intended to offset losses in the existing fleet while boosting the domestic defense aviation industry.
Indian Locally-made Su-30MKI Fighter Jet (Picture source: Wikimedia)
HAL’s Nashik production facility, historically dedicated to manufacturing Su-30MKIs under a Russian license, will resume operations to fulfill this order. This production boost will enable the IAF to rapidly increase its air power. Deliveries are scheduled over a period of three years, showcasing India's commitment to local defense manufacturing.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI, developed in collaboration with Russia, is a multi-role fighter jet renowned for its versatility. Twin-seat and twin-engine, it is capable of conducting air superiority and deep interdiction missions. Powered by two AL-31F engines, it achieves a maximum speed of Mach 2 and has an operational range of 3,000 km, extendable to 5,200 km with aerial refueling. The aircraft is equipped with a sophisticated avionics suite that includes a locally developed AESA radar, advanced navigation systems, and electronic warfare capabilities, including the Tarang radar warning system developed by the DRDO.
In terms of weaponry, the Su-30MKI is formidable, with 12 hardpoints capable of carrying up to 8,000 kg of payload. It features a 30 mm GSh-301 cannon and can deploy a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, such as the Kh-29, Kh-31, and Kh-59, which include laser, TV, and infrared-guided munitions.
HAL has also proposed supplying an additional 72 Su-30MKI fighter jets to the IAF, potentially increasing the fleet to over 344 units by 2029-2030. This expansion, estimated at 5 billion USD, is designed to modernize the IAF with advanced indigenous technologies. The plan includes a modernization program called "Super-30", aimed at enhancing combat capabilities to meet modern warfare requirements. Key upgrades involve integrating an Indian-origin AESA radar to improve detection range, precision, and resistance to jamming, along with advanced avionics, mission computers, and navigation systems—all domestically developed. Furthermore, the integration of indigenous weaponry will enable the Su-30MKI to deploy precision-guided munitions, significantly enhancing its operational capabilities.
The Nashik plant, which previously produced Su-30MKIs under license from Russia's United Aircraft Corporation, will once again play a central role in this production. With a unit cost estimated at 70.3 million USD, HAL aims to streamline production processes to meet delivery timelines. Should the additional 72-unit order be approved, HAL plans to deliver the aircraft over six years, with completion targeted for 2029-2030. This expansion would bring the total number of operational IAF squadrons to 34, marking a significant boost to India's aerial combat capabilities.
India continues to pursue a policy of "multi-alignment," balancing strategic relationships with multiple global powers. While maintaining strong ties with Russia, India has also developed defense partnerships with the United States, France, and Israel. This strategy aims to reduce dependency on a single supplier while maximizing international strategic advantages.
In conclusion, the new order for 12 Su-30MKI fighter jets and the proposed future expansion highlight India’s determination to modernize its air fleet while supporting its domestic defense industry. Through indigenous technologies and a strategy of diversified partnerships, India reinforces its position as a regional military power capable of addressing contemporary strategic challenges.