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In a strategic move to balance immediate operational requirements with long-term indigenisation goals, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly considering a "dual-track" modernisation strategy for its frontline Su-30MKI fleet.
While the comprehensive, domestically developed "Super-30" programme progresses through its development cycle, the IAF may upgrade a select number of squadrons with direct Russian assistance to ensure combat readiness in the interim.
Bridging the Gap: The Interim Russian Upgrade
Sources familiar with the development indicate that the indigenous Super-30 upgrade—spearheaded by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)—will require approximately five years to complete strictly developmental trials and testing.To prevent a capability gap during this period, the IAF is exploring an option to fast-track the modernisation of two to three Su-30MKI squadrons (approximately 36 to 50 aircraft) using a hybrid mix of Indo-Russian systems.
This interim measure represents a pragmatic departure from a purely indigenous roadmap. By engaging Russian support for these specific units, the Air Force aims to rapidly enhance the combat lethality of its "spearhead" formations.
This approach allows the service to bolster its immediate air dominance capabilities while the broader and more ambitious fleet-wide modernisation continues in parallel.
Uncertainty Over Radar Specifications
The precise technical configuration for the Russian-assisted upgrade remains under finalisation. It is currently unclear if these interim aircraft will receive the high-end avionics reserved for the Super-30, such as the indigenous 'Virupaksha' radar.The Virupaksha is an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, capable of tracking targets at ranges reported to exceed 300 kilometres.
Defence officials suggest that while the interim upgrade will likely refresh critical mission systems and avionics, the depth of the sensor suite overhaul may be limited compared to the full domestic package.
This indecision highlights the challenge the IAF faces: securing immediate tactical advantages without undermining the long-term vision of deep indigenisation.
The Super-30: A Comprehensive Indigenous Overhaul
Running parallel to these interim measures is the massive "Super-30" programme, which awaits final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). This project envisages the deep modernisation of an initial batch of 84 Su-30MKI jets. Once cleared, HAL will execute what is described as the most extensive upgrade in the fleet's history, transforming the aircraft into 4.5+ generation fighters.The Super-30 standard will center on replacing ageing Russian components with state-of-the-art Indian technology. Key planned integrations include:
- Virupaksha AESA Radar: Offering superior detection and electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) capabilities.
- Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) Suites: Indigenous jamming and self-protection systems.
- Next-Generation Weaponry: Full integration of Indian weapons like the Astra Mark-1 and Mark-2 air-to-air missiles.
Flying Test Beds and Future Timeline
To validate these complex technologies, the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) is set to configure two Su-30MKI airframes as dedicated flying test beds.These aircraft will be instrumental in testing the new "brain" of the fighter—a more powerful, indigenously developed mission computer designed to handle the massive data processing requirements of modern AESA radars and EW systems.
If the CCS grants necessary approvals by 2026, the development and flight testing phase is projected to conclude around 2031.
Following successful validation, the serial upgrade of the fleet to the Super-30 configuration would commence. Until then, the proposed Russian-assisted upgrades will serve as a vital stopgap, ensuring the Su-30MKI remains a formidable deterrent in the region.
