Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will restart production of Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets at its Nashik plant, backed by a $1.3 billion contract approved in September 2023. The order calls for 12 new Su-30MKI aircraft, intended to help replace recent losses in the Indian Air Force (IAF) fleet and reinforce domestic fighter jet production. HAL anticipates delivering these units within the next three years.
The Su-30MKI, a multi-role fighter jet developed by Russia with HAL's collaboration, is designed for both air superiority and deep strike missions. The aircraft features twin engines, a twin-seat cockpit, and advanced avionics, including an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and a radar warning system. Capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 2, the Su-30MKI has a standard combat range of 3,000 km, extendable to 5,200 km with aerial refueling, and can carry over 8,000 kg of weapons on 12 hardpoints. The jet is armed with a 30 mm cannon and a variety of precision-guided munitions.
In addition to the 12 jets currently under production, HAL has submitted a proposal to supply 72 more Su-30MKIs to the IAF, along with a "Super-30" upgrade package that would enhance avionics, radar, and combat capabilities. Estimated at $5 billion, the expansion would increase the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet to more than 344 aircraft by 2029-30, potentially adding four new squadrons. This would strengthen the IAF’s long-term operational readiness, especially with indigenous radar and weapons systems included in the proposed upgrade.
The Nashik plant was originally set up to produce the Su-30MKI under a licensing arrangement with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation. HAL reports that it can meet the delivery schedule for both the current batch of 12 jets and any additional orders within the next six years if the proposal for the 72 units is approved. Production costs are estimated at approximately $70.3 million per aircraft for the new batch.
This project continues HAL’s long-standing cooperation with Russian defense companies. Russia remains a key supplier of military equipment for India, with joint ventures covering advanced weapons and defense systems, including the BrahMos missile and naval projects under India's "Make in India" program.
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