Indian Su-30MKI fighters may get another 15–20 years of service. India's Defence Acquisition Council is considering a proposal to modernize 40 combat aircraft.
Currently, the republic's Air Force operates more than 260 Su-30MKIs, which form the backbone of its combat aviation. The modernization program is being implemented by Indian HAL — the equivalent of Russian Rostec.
In parallel, HAL is assembling new Su-30MKIs. The plan provides for the production of 12 aircraft, with about 50% of the components to be of Indian origin.
At the same time, India is gradually introducing Tejas Mk1A and developing the promising AMCA fighter, while also showing interest in the Su-37.
From the editors: it is difficult to say how exactly the modernization of the Su-30MKI will affect the prospects for purchasing Su-57 from Russia. The modernization of only 84 4th-generation fighters was estimated at $8 billion. Spreading the remaining funds over the modernization program for another 40 aircraft, apparently, finally deprives the Su-57 of funding.
India also prefers to spend on expanding its fleet of more reliable French Rafale in terms of logistics.