In a significant development for India's defence industry, Samtel Avionics System Ltd, headquartered in Uttar Pradesh, has secured a contract with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). This agreement will see Samtel equip all 18 of Malaysia's Sukhoi-30MKM fighter jets with state-of-the-art Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) and Head-Up Displays (HUDs).
This deal not only strengthens the existing defence ties between India and Malaysia but also underscores India's growing prominence as a global supplier of defence technology.
The integration of Samtel's MFDs into the RMAF's Su-30MKM fleet is expected to significantly enhance the fighter jets' capabilities. These displays, available in 5"x5", 6"x6", and 5"x4" sizes, provide pilots with improved situational awareness and a more intuitive interface for managing flight data and weapons systems. By modernizing the avionics of the Su-30MKM, these MFDs will extend the operational life of the aircraft.
Notably, these displays have already been successfully deployed in the Indian Air Force's (IAF) own Su-30MKI fleet, demonstrating their reliability and effectiveness in high-performance combat aircraft. Samtel Avionics has a proven track record, having delivered 1,000 units of these indigenously manufactured MFDs to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for integration into the IAF's Su-30MKIs.
Furthermore, the RMAF Su-30MKMs will also be fitted with Samtel's advanced Head-Up Displays (HUDs). These HUDs project critical flight information directly into the pilot's line of sight, enabling them to maintain focus on their surroundings and the mission without needing to look down at cockpit instruments.
This technology is crucial for enhancing pilot effectiveness during combat situations and high-speed maneuvers, providing the RMAF with a significant tactical advantage.
The displays being supplied to Malaysia are the result of a successful joint venture between Samtel Avionics and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) called Samtel HAL Display Systems (SHDS). This partnership has played a key role in fulfilling the avionics requirements of the IAF's Su-30MKI fleet, which forms the backbone of India's air superiority.
The collaboration between Samtel and HAL has enabled the indigenous development and production of high-quality avionics, establishing India as a dependable source of advanced defence technologies. This deal with Malaysia further solidifies this position.
