France has formally requested India to tighten its export controls on avionics components used in Su-30 fighter jets, amid fears that these crucial systems could be indirectly supplied to Russia, bypassing international sanctions.
The concern stems from reports that a Kazakhstan-based company is facilitating the repair and maintenance of Russian Su-30SM fighter jets using French-made technology, potentially sourced from India.
The Su-30SM, a variant of the Su-30MKI operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), relies heavily on avionics systems produced by French company Thales. These systems include multifunction displays, navigation systems, and heads-up displays (HUDs), all vital for the aircraft's operational effectiveness.
India, operating the largest fleet of Su-30MKI jets globally, has developed significant expertise in maintaining and supplying spares for these aircraft, including the French-made avionics. This expertise has positioned Indian firms as key suppliers in the global Su-30 supply chain.
However, France is concerned that this access to critical components could be exploited to indirectly supply Russia, which is currently under international sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine.
A recent investigation by InformNapalm, an international intelligence community, revealed that the Kazakh company ARC Group is servicing Russian Su-30SMs using French technology, despite sanctions. This has raised red flags in Paris, prompting the request to India to monitor and restrict the flow of these sensitive components.
While India has not yet officially responded to the French request, the issue highlights the complexities of global defence trade and the challenges of enforcing sanctions in a interconnected world.
India's position as a major operator and supplier of Su-30 components places it in a critical position to influence the flow of these sensitive technologies.
The French request is likely to lead to increased scrutiny of Indian defence firms involved in the Su-30 supply chain. It remains to be seen how India will balance its strategic partnerships with both Russia and the West while navigating the complexities of international sanctions and export controls.
