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The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated a significant procurement process to enhance the electronic warfare (EW) capabilities of its frontline fighter fleet.
A Request for Information (RFI) has been issued for 100 Aircraft Self-Protection Jammer (ASPJ) pods specifically designed for the Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft.
This move is part of a dedicated push under the 'Make in India' initiative to equip the aircraft with advanced, domestically-produced technology for survival in contested airspace.
The procurement underscores the IAF's urgency in modernising its fleet, mandating a rapid delivery timeline of just 36 months from the date the contract is signed.
Part of the 'Super Sukhoi' Upgrade
This acquisition is a critical component of the broader "Super Sukhoi" upgrade program, an ambitious project valued at approximately ₹65,000 crore.The program aims to transform the IAF's 260-strong Su-30MKI fleet, which forms the backbone of India's air power, into a formidable 4.5-generation combat force.
This comprehensive modernisation includes equipping the jets with new indigenous systems, such as the 'Virupaksha' Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, a next-generation Radar Warning Receiver (NG-RWR), and an advanced digital cockpit.
The new jammer pods will be integrated into this upgraded electronic warfare suite.
The Need for an 'Electronic Shield'
The Su-30MKI, which first entered service in 2002, is evolving from a Russian air superiority fighter into an Indianised multi-role platform capable of launching weapons like the BrahMos missile.However, in an era of sophisticated air defence networks, such as the S-400, and advanced long-range missiles, passive defences are no longer sufficient.
The new ASPJ pods will function as an "invisible armor" for the aircraft. These external pods are designed to detect, identify, and neutralise enemy radar systems and radar-guided missiles.
By jamming and deceiving enemy sensors, the pods create an electronic shield that allows the Su-30MKI to operate more safely and effectively in high-threat environments.
Key Requirements and Timeline
The RFI, published through the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) portal, specifies highly advanced technical requirements. The IAF is seeking a system that provides 360-degree jamming coverage using modern AESA technology.A key feature is the inclusion of Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM), an advanced deception technique. Instead of just "blinding" enemy radar with noise, DRFM allows the pod to record an incoming radar signal, modify it, and send back a false signal.
This can trick an enemy system into seeing multiple false targets or miscalculating the aircraft's true location and speed.
The procurement mandates a minimum of 50% Indigenous Content, aligning with the 'Make in India' policy. The RFI also calls for associated equipment, including training simulators, test benches, and life-cycle support.
Interested vendors are expected to submit their responses by early 2026, which will be followed by a formal Request for Proposal (RFP).
Indian Industry Poised to Deliver
India's domestic defence industry is actively preparing to meet this demand. Private firms like Data Patterns have already developed and showcased potential solutions.The company's "TALON SHIELD" pod, a GaN-based AESA jammer, was unveiled in September 2025 and has reportedly completed ground integration trials on Su-30MKI airframes.
Other major contenders are expected to include public-sector undertaking Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL), potentially in partnership with a foreign original equipment manufacturer, and L&T's electronic warfare division.
The project is seen as a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies and fostering a robust domestic supply chain.
