The decision on the major upgrade program of the Indian Air Force's main fighter aircraft Su-30MKI is going to be taken soon. According to HAL sources, this plan may get the approval of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in the next one or two months. Its technical preparations have been completed.
After talks between HAL, Air Force and DRDO, all the important things related to the upgrade have been decided. Now only some formal and paper processes are left. Under this scheme, 84 Su-30MKI aircraft will be modernized. This program is known as Super Sukhoi.
The program includes advanced AESA radar (about 400 km range), new and modern cockpit design, Artificial Intelligence (AI) based multi-function display system, voice command system, new IRST system (BEL), advanced self protection jammer pod, capability of modern missiles like Astra Mk-1 and Astra Mk-2. Also includes better data-link and electronic warfare system.
Su-30MKI is still the most numerous and most powerful fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force. It plays an important role in air defense, deep strike and maritime missions. However, many aircraft have now reached their second decade of service, so upgrades are considered extremely necessary.
HAL's Nashik division, which has vast experience in manufacturing and overhauling the Su-30MKI, will handle a major part of the upgrade. The work is expected to start rapidly as soon as approval is received from CCS. The purpose of this upgrade is clearly to keep the Su-30MKI fully capable after 2040, when future fighters like AMCA join the Air Force.
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