The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to strengthen its fleet with the acquisition of 12 additional Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft following a contract signed between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The contract, valued at approximately Rs 13,500 crore, was officially signed this past Thursday.
Manufactured at HAL’s Nasik division, the new Su-30 MKI aircraft are set to feature an impressive indigenous content of 62.6 percent. This level of indigenisation is the result of various components being produced by the domestic defence industry, marking a significant milestone in India’s self-reliance strategy, known as the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The Defence Ministry noted in a statement that this procurement not only signifies a major boost to indigenous manufacturing but will also enhance the operational capabilities of the IAF. By securing these additional aircraft, the IAF aims to bolster its defense preparedness amid evolving security challenges.
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In conjunction with this acquisition, the IAF is undertaking an extensive upgrade project for its existing fleet of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets. This initiative targets the enhancement of initially 84 aircraft, integrating indigenous weapon systems, advanced radar technologies, and sophisticated avionics. A noteworthy feature of the upgrades will be the integration of the BrahMos-A air-launched cruise supersonic missile, which boasts a striking range of 400 to 500 kilometers.
The combined capabilities of the upgraded Sukhois, paired with their operational range of over 1,500 kilometers and the long-range strike potential of the BrahMos missiles, will significantly empower the IAF. This enhanced tactical advantage positions the Indian Air Force to effectively counter any adversaries that threaten national interests, ensuring a robust defense posture in the region.
