In a move that could significantly reshape its defence landscape, Armenia is reportedly engaging with India to enhance its air power. Facing difficulties in procuring fighter jets from its traditional supplier, Russia, Armenia is exploring a two-fold strategy involving India's advanced Su-30MKI fighter jet.
Firstly, Yerevan seeks to upgrade its existing fleet of four Su-30SMs to a more potent "Super-30" configuration, mirroring the capabilities of the Indian Air Force's Su-30MKI. This upgrade package would include integrating cutting-edge Indian weaponry and technology.
Notably, the Armenian jets would be equipped with the Astra Mk1 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, RudraM air-to-surface missiles, and the domestically developed Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.
The Uttam AESA radar, replacing the original Russian Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA) radar, promises a substantial leap in the aircraft's detection and targeting capabilities.
Further enhancing the upgrade is the integration of an Indian mission computer, showcasing the growing sophistication of India's defence industry.
Secondly, and perhaps more significantly, Armenia is considering the direct purchase of additional Su-30MKI fighters from India. This development comes in the wake of Russia's inability to deliver the remaining eight Su-30SMs that Armenia had previously ordered.
Experts believe that Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the resulting production constraints are hindering its ability to fulfill these commitments.
This potential shift towards India as a major defence partner aligns with Russia's own strategy. Facing Western sanctions, Moscow is keen to delegate Su-30 production to India.
Reopening the production line in Nashik, India, which ceased operations in 2021, would not only allow Russia to meet existing orders but also potentially pave the way for exporting more Su-30MKIs. This arrangement would be mutually beneficial, with India securing a new export client and Russia mitigating the impact of sanctions on its arms industry.
It is anticipated that any newly purchased Su-30MKIs would also feature the "Super-30" configuration, further underscoring Armenia's growing confidence in Indian defence technology.
The successful implementation of this upgrade program and the potential acquisition of new fighter jets hinge on the ongoing negotiations between India and Armenia. If finalized, this partnership could establish a precedent for future defence agreements between the two countries, solidifying India's position as a reliable provider of advanced military technology on the global stage.
