India's Su-30MKI fleet braces for cutting-edge upgrade modernization

A comprehensive overhaul of the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet, valued at approximately $7.25 billion and sanctioned by the defense ministry last year, is set to enhance the aircraft's capabilities through the incorporation of new radars, mission control systems, electronic warfare features, and the integration of advanced weapon systems. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will spearhead the upgrade, with significant involvement from the private sector.

According to HAL's Chairman and Managing Director, CB Annanthakirshanan, the extensive upgrade project will witness substantial participation from private enterprises, positioning HAL as the primary integrator. The Air Force, expediting the initiative, has divided the upgrade into two phases. The initial phase will focus on installing new avionics and radars, while the subsequent phase will concentrate on enhancing flight control systems. Notably, various Russian-origin systems will be replaced with indigenous alternatives.

The predominant emphasis of the upgrade involves the incorporation of indigenous systems designed to provide the aircraft with a competitive edge. This includes the introduction of a new indigenous radar, significantly extending the aircraft's capability to detect and engage targets at greater distances. The inadequacies of the radar in older generation jets had been a concern for the Air Force, prompting the move towards advanced, indigenous solutions.

In the first phase, the Su-30MKI will also be equipped with a state-of-the-art Electronic Warfare System to counter incoming threats and disrupt enemy communications. Additionally, the fighters will be outfitted with new indigenous Infra-Red Search and Track systems, substantially enhancing their capacity to engage air-to-air and air-to-ground targets.

The integration of the new systems is expected to commence this year, aligning with the Air Force's eagerness to modernize the entire fleet promptly. The initial tranche will involve upgrading around 90 fighters entirely within India. India initially procured 272 Su-30MKI fighter jets from Russia, forming a crucial component of the Air Force's fleet. In a recent development, an order for 12 additional jets, valued at approximately $1.32 billion, was approved last year, with HAL tasked to manufacture them, incorporating over 50% indigenous content.