HAL to Manufacture 12 New Su-30MKI Aircraft to Replenish Crash Losses, Highlighting Confidence in Aircraft's Long-Term Performance

The Indian Ministry of Defence has awarded a ₹13,500 crore contract to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production of 12 new Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets. These aircraft will replenish the Indian Air Force's (IAF) fleet, replacing those lost in accidents over the years and ensuring continued operational readiness.

The Sukhoi-30MKI is a cornerstone of the IAF's fighter fleet, with a sanctioned strength of 272 aircraft. Currently, 260 are in active service, distributed across 13 operational squadrons and technical establishments. This new contract will ensure the fleet remains robust and effective, with deliveries expected to be completed within the next few years.

The Su-30MKI has been customized to meet India's specific requirements, incorporating advanced avionics, weapons systems, and modifications. While the first aircraft were delivered by Russia in 2002, HAL began local assembly in 2004, significantly contributing to India's domestic defence manufacturing capabilities.

Although the Su-30MKI has generally been a reliable platform for the IAF, it has experienced some operational accidents over its two-decade service history. Out of the 272 aircraft inducted or sanctioned, 12 (approximately 4.4%) have been lost due to crashes.

Early accidents were often attributed to teething problems with locally assembled aircraft, issues that HAL has since addressed. Pilot error has also contributed to some incidents, a factor common with high-performance fighter jets. Additionally, the aircraft's extensive use in training, air exercises, and operational deployments contributes to wear and tear.

Despite these accidents, the IAF maintains confidence in the Su-30MKI. The crashes, spread over 22 years, average about 0.55 per year. Moreover, the aircraft are expected to remain in service until 2060, extending their operational life to nearly 60 years from their initial induction. This demonstrates the IAF's confidence in the platform's long-term viability and potential for future upgrades.

This latest contract for 12 new Su-30MKIs not only replenishes the IAF's fleet but also underscores its commitment to this capable fighter jet. By continuing to invest in the Su-30MKI, the IAF ensures its operational readiness and maintains a powerful and versatile fighter force for decades to come.

 

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[R. Singh]

HAL should power SU-30 with latest engines allow Su-30 to attain Mac 2.5 speed and its bomber fighter variant to carry 10 ton of weapon load !

 

[Sunny]

We should develop an indigenous variant based on the su-30mki like how the US has done with F-15EX or similar to what has been done by China. Su-30 design will remain revelent for decades to come and continuing production of improved variants will be beneficial to us. It's heavy payload capability is matched by few other designs and should be an effective non-stealthy option as we already produce over 50% of the components.

 

[Anant]

Minor correction: We have less than 259 Su-30MKIs in service. 13 have been lost over the years (not 12), and a few are generally not available due to maintenance and the like. Regardless, if one adds up aircraft used for testing and aircraft assigned to TACDE and other institutions, then our Su-30MKI fleet is, at the most, 259.

 

[desigandu]

Could we not have ordered say 48-60 Su30MKI in a super Sukhoi configuration to be delivered by HAL in 4-5 years! Logistically, budget wise and also to address fleet depletion!

We really need fighters before 2030!

 

[Instant Karma]

That means SU 30 MKI is the safest fighters plane in the world even safer than F 35.

 

[sanket]

12 Su-30 MKI should come with use of Composite material Instead Metal & in Super Sukhoi configuration , after signing the deal deal it takes almost 3 years to deliver First Su-30 MKI by the Time some Tech can b developed & ready for Integration in Su-30 MKI , second going by History of crashes avg of .55 per year should have ordered another 20 as This fleet of 272 is expected to operation for untill 2060 plus some or 2 jets should b handed over to HAL & DRDO as Test bed it would have been ideal to order atleast another 20 Su-30 MKI keeping in mind for operation 2060