Indian state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) plans to resume production of Su-30MKI fighters at its Nasik plant. According to Indian Defence Research Wing (IDRW) reports, HAL has submitted updated proposals to produce 12 aircraft under Russian licence and an additional 72 in an upgraded guise known as the Super-30. If HAL’s initiative is realised, the Indian Air Force’s fleet will reach 344 fighters of the type. This was reported by the Centre for Analysis of World Arms Trade (CAMTO).
Production and assembly of new Su-30MKI is planned under the state programme ‘Made in India’, the cost of the project is estimated at about $5 billion. The proposals submitted by HAL are aimed at increasing the systems of its own production and technology transfer. It is planned to upgrade the radars, avionics, air defence equipment, and integrate infrared targeting systems for air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. HAL’s proposal was supported at the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, but the Air Force Command has not yet received a response, the delay being attributed to budgetary constraints.
The programme to upgrade the Su-30MKI to the Super-30 (or Super-Sukhoy) version has been under discussion since 2010, and its cost is estimated at $7.5 billion. Russia insisted on replacing the previous-generation AL-31FP engine with the modern AL-41F1S. The main difference between the AL-31FP and the basic AL-31F is a thrust vector deflected by up to ±15° in the vertical plane. The powerplant develops a thrust of 7670 kgf in normal mode and 12500 kgf on afterburner. AL-41F1S is an engine with all-round thrust vector control. Its power is 8800 kgf, at afterburner – 14000 kgf.
As of today, there are no concrete solutions to these proposals either; HAL has collected all the developments on the Super-30 programme, analysed them and is now offering them to the Indian Air Force as its own initiative for quick and adequate modernisation of the outdated fighters. According to expert estimates, the modernised version of the fighter will extend its service life and enhance the combat capability of the Indian Air Force. With geopolitical tensions rising in the region, this upgrade could play a significant role in maintaining the military balance. The modernisation of the Su-30MKI will enable India to counter modern threats more effectively and ensure operational readiness of the armed forces.
CAMTO notes that although IDRW is a blogging resource, most of its publications are subsequently corroborated by more authoritative sources. It is considered an insider channel of the Indian defence industry. The observations and data presented on IDRW are noteworthy to stakeholders and quite often influence public opinion within the country.
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