India's Su-30MKI fighter jets set for Rs 60,000 crore upgrade with big private sector participation; check details here

India’s Su-30MKI fighter jets set for Rs 60,000 crore upgrade with big private sector participation; check details here

Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet: The mainstay Su 30MKI fighter jet fleet is set to undergo a comprehensive upgrade, including new radars, a mission control system, electronic warfare capabilities, and integration of new weapon systems.

As per an ET report, the defense ministry approved a Rs 60,000-crore upgrade last year. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will lead the upgrade, with support from DRDO and procurement from the private sector.

CMD of HAL CB Ananthakrishnan told the financial daily, “The upgrade will see significant private sector participation, with HAL as the lead integrator.”

The Air Force has expedited the two-phase project. The first phase will focus on installing new avionics and radars, while the second will enhance flight control systems. Indigenous alternatives are replacing several Russian-origin systems, the report said.

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Most of the work will focus on installing indigenous systems to boost the aircraft’s combat capabilities. This includes a new indigenous radar that can detect and engage targets over longer distances. The Air Force was worried about the older jets’ radar being outmatched by adversary systems.

The first phase will also involve the installation of a new Electronic Warfare System for jamming threats and disrupt enemy communication and indigenous Infra Red Search and Track systems, enhancing the aircraft’s ability to engage air-to-air and air-to-ground targets.

Integration of the aircraft with the new systems may commence this year, as the Air Force is eager to modernize the entire fleet promptly. Around 90 of the fighters will be upgraded initially, with the entire process being conducted within India.

India ordered 272 fighter jets from Russia, which are the backbone of the Air Force’s fighter fleet. Additionally, an order for 12 more jets, valued at Rs 11,000 crore, was cleared last year. These jets will be manufactured by HAL, with over 50% indigenous content.

Over 600 Su-27/30 type aircraft have been manufactured, with major operators including Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Algeria. This presents a substantial export market for the upgrades.

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