IAF to Equip 84 Su-30MKI with AMCA-Derived Near Fifth-Gen Capabilities under 2nd Phase of 'Super Sukhoi' Program

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to launch a major modernization program for its Su-30MKI fighter fleet, known as the 'Super Sukhoi' program. This ambitious initiative, undertaken in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aims to upgrade 84 Su-30MKI aircraft with advanced technologies, bringing them closer to fifth-generation capabilities.

The program will be executed in two phases. The first phase will focus on upgrading 84 Su-30MKIs with technologies derived from the Tejas Mk1A and MkII programs. This will include integrating advanced avionics, a new AESA radar, enhanced electronic warfare systems, and improved weapons integration. These upgrades will significantly enhance the aircraft's situational awareness, targeting capabilities, and survivability.

The second phase, anticipated around 2030, will involve upgrading another 84 Su-30MKIs with cutting-edge technologies from India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This will include next-generation avionics, advanced sensors, data fusion capabilities, and potential stealth-adjacent features. This phase aims to further enhance the aircraft's performance and ensure its relevance in a rapidly evolving battlefield.

The AMCA program, India's indigenous fifth-generation fighter initiative, will serve as a critical technology source for the Super Sukhoi project. Key advancements from AMCA, such as advanced mission computers, a next-generation electronic warfare suite, and new cockpit displays, are expected to be adapted for the Su-30MKI upgrades.

With 270 Su-30MKIs currently in service, the IAF operates one of the largest fleets outside of Russia. However, with plans to retire older aircraft from 2035 onwards, the Super Sukhoi program is crucial for maintaining the fleet's combat effectiveness and ensuring its alignment with the IAF's future operational requirements. The program's phased approach allows for the gradual incorporation of advanced technologies, keeping the Su-30MKI relevant and potent until at least 2060.

 

[sanket]

Upgrading Su-30 MKI in two batches will help. Also, if the IAF considers HAL's recent offer of 72 Su-30s in Super Sukhoi configuration by 2030, the IAF will get 240 Super Sukhois in the long term rather than 84+84=168 Super Sukhois by 2060. Plus, the IAF should consider an engine upgrade. Instead of the AL-31, the IAF should consider an AL-51 derivative for all those Super Sukhoi upgrades.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

So first 84 upgraded SU30 MKIs will have GaAS based uttam.

 

[Shiva]

This is really a best approach to mitigate strategic independence to Indian needs.

This is a good time to increase the stockpile of Russian kits for the AL-31FP engine. Because this is the only imported component. We can safely give a bulk order so that it is attractive for the component manufacturer of the Russian company to an extent that they can produce it within India in some underground secret space for future war readiness. The Russian Government may allow it because it is also good for Russia, in case of war, if their own company is destroyed and they need those critical components then they can also order them from the underground facility. Anyhow, it is their own company, so it won't create any hurdles.

In my view, giving 5000 kits with a repeat order assurance of an additional 5000 kits is good. Also, need to order an additional similar 5000 kits related to AL-53FP with the assurance of an additional 5000 kits.

Why I am saying this is, we can modify the engine or final product by making design changes and come up with better products and it continues. This is a pure indigenous trend and we can simply stop thinking about importing aircraft and instead, we can focus on exporting aircraft and also increase the stockpile.

If China is superior in naval capacity then we can make an edge by bulk producing aircraft once our dependence on imports is rectified by bulk purchasing and stockpiling critical components.

Anyhow, now, we are about to have a UPI payment system or Rupee-Ruble payment system. So, giving bulk orders is the best choice to enhance our strategic capabilities.

 

[Instant Karma]

IAF urgently needs urgently more than 100 new SU 30 MKI, to meet 44 sqardron Levels.

 

[Sudha]

Always SU30 upgrade since more than 10 years. Bharatiyas aren't interested. What they are interested in is when will it happen? Will it be done after the 6th gen fighter is inducted in Bharat's IAF?

 

[Sudha]

Also, if the IAF considers HAL's recent offer of 72 Su-30s in Super Sukhoi configuration by 2030, the IAF will get 240 Super Sukhois in the long term rather than 84+84=168 Super Sukhois by 2060.

Anything sponsored by HAL should be rejected outright. See HAL's baby Mk1A stuck because of HAL's wrong decision of choosing a closed line aero engine.