The Indian Ministry of Defense has completed the preparation of a project to modernize the first batch of 84 Russian-made Su-30MKI fighters for $7.5 billion. The document must be approved by the Security Committee under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is expected that the fourth-generation fighter, after modernization, will approach fifth-generation aircraft in terms of its flight performance characteristics, writes Eurasian Times.
The ambitious plan aims to significantly expand the capabilities of Russian-made Su-30 MKI aircraft, making them more lethal in aerial combat. The modernization initiative will include the integration of advanced technologies, such as advanced radars, avionics, and longer-range weapons. However, the changes will not affect the engine.
It is expected that the modernized Su-30MKI will be able to fly for the next 30 years. Specialists from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) should be involved in the work on the plan.
The phased decommissioning of MiG-21 aircraft has increased the operational load on Su-30MKI aircraft, which has increased their wear and tear. Currently, the Indian Air Force operates about 260 "Sukhois."
According to Rahul Manohar Yelve, a senior research fellow at the Center for Security Studies, the Su-30MKI will be equipped with Indian "Virupaksha" radars with an advanced active electronically scanned array (AESA). These radars will increase the target detection range by 1.5-1.7 times compared to Russian-made radars. In addition, the Su-30MKI will be able to interact with UAVs using artificial intelligence and data transmission channels.
Read more on the topic:
"More Teeth" for the Fighter: India and Russia are Negotiating the Revival of Su-30MKI Production
Turnover of $100 Billion by 2030: India Hopes to Return to the Ka-226T Helicopter Production Project
