Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has begun construction of 12 new multi-role Su-30MKI fighters, which will receive the largest package of Indian modifications in recent years. The aircraft are being built to the order of the Indian Air Force and will be equipped with indigenous systems developed by the national defense industry.

The contract provides for the production of a new batch of fighters at HAL's production line in Nashik. Unlike previous series, the new aircraft are initially built with an expanded set of local components, which should increase the technological independence of the program and simplify further maintenance of the aircraft.

The main focus is on the introduction of Indian developments. The fighters will be equipped with a modern weapon control computing complex, digital communication systems, an "identify friend or foe" system, new flight data recorders, and advanced electronic warfare systems. In addition, the aircraft will receive updated navigation equipment and a number of other nationally produced systems.

The new batch is also seen as an intermediate stage before a deeper modernization of the entire Su-30MKI fleet. In the future, these aircraft are planned to be equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar, a new electronic warfare complex, and modern Indian-developed air-launched weapons.