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In a significant boost to India's indigenous defence capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to receive a major order for around 230 AL-31FP engines, destined to power the Indian Air Force's Sukhoi 30-MKI fighter fleet.
The deal, valued at approximately Rs 21,000 crore, will see HAL manufacture these engines domestically, replacing the ageing ones nearing the end of their operational life.
Deliveries of the engines are expected to be staggered over several years, catering to the total requirement of nearly 950 AL-31FP engines that propel the entire fleet of twin-engine Su-30MKI fighters.
HAL's production of these engines under a licensed arrangement with a high degree of localization ensures not only self-reliance but also a significant economic boost, with a large portion of the order value benefiting the local vendor and supplier base.
Beyond the engine replacements, the Su-30MKI fleet, which forms the backbone of the Indian Air Force, is also slated for a comprehensive upgrade. This upgrade encompasses the integration of new avionics, radars, and electronic warfare suites, modernizing the fighter jets to maintain their combat edge.
The first phase of this upgrade, focusing on close to 100 fighters, will be executed entirely within India, with HAL taking the lead in collaboration with the Indian Air Force and other partners. The entire upgrade program is estimated to be valued at over Rs 60,000 crore.
Currently, India operates a fleet of 272 Su-30MKI fighter jets, originally ordered from Russia. The defence ministry has also greenlit an additional order for 12 more jets, worth nearly Rs 11,000 crore, to compensate for aircraft lost in accidents, although the deal awaits formal signing.
