Why IAF Retained AL-31FP Engines for Su-30MKI Fleet Despite Superior Thrust AL-41F Offer from Russia? Logistics and Training Main Factors

In a decision with significant implications for the Indian Air Force (IAF), India has opted to retain the existing AL-31FP engines for its fleet of 84 Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, declining an offer from Russia to upgrade them with the more advanced AL-41F engines.

While the AL-41F offers superior thrust and improved Mean Time Between Overhauls (MTBO), the IAF's choice reflects a prioritization of logistical efficiency and training continuity.

An official from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) confirmed that the decision to stay with the AL-31FP engines was primarily driven by the IAF.

Despite the AL-41F's proven compatibility with the Su-30MKI platform, as demonstrated by the Russian Air Force's transition to these engines on their Su-30SM aircraft, several factors influenced this decision.

Over the years, HAL, in collaboration with the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), has successfully addressed early technical issues with the AL-31FP engines.

Furthermore, HAL has achieved the capability to manufacture these engines domestically from raw materials, enhancing India's self-reliance in engine production.

Logistical considerations also played a key role in the IAF's decision. While the AL-41F shares some commonalities with the AL-31FP in terms of service ground tools, transitioning to the new engine would necessitate significant reskilling of ground crew for maintenance and repairs.

Additionally, the higher thrust of the AL-41F could alter the flight dynamics of the Su-30MKI, requiring pilot reorientation and potentially new training modules.

Ultimately, the IAF chose to avoid the additional costs and time associated with transitioning to a new engine type, especially when the existing engines have been effectively localized and improved.

By sticking with the AL-31FP, the IAF can leverage its established supply chain and maintenance ecosystem without significant disruption.

However, this choice means forgoing the potential performance enhancements offered by the AL-41F, including increased thrust and engine longevity. The Su-30MKI, a cornerstone of the IAF's fighter fleet, will still undergo upgrades to become the "Super Sukhoi," but these will focus on avionics, radar systems, and weapon integration rather than a change in propulsion.

This decision reflects a strategic balancing act between technological advancement and operational continuity. The IAF has prioritized minimizing disruption to its existing infrastructure and expertise, even if it means forgoing potential performance gains.

 

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[sanket]

Heavy weapon package and vision about Super Sukhoi to remain in 2060. The IAF should have considered the AL-41 derivative. Some comedian will blame HAL even after it's the IAF's decision to stick with AL-31FP. They have a short memory and forget this, all start blaming after 2 to 3 years. It was the IAF who wanted the GE-404 directly from the US, and even components/spare parts; they wanted GE, which is the OEM, to supply for the GE-404 engine for its maintenance.

 

[beencensured]

Heavy weapon package and vision about Super Sukhoi to remain in 2060. The IAF should have considered the AL-41 derivative. Some comedian will blame HAL even after it's the IAF's decision to stick with AL-31FP. They have a short memory and forget this, all start blaming after 2 to 3 years. It was the IAF who wanted the GE-404 directly from the US, and even components/spare parts; they wanted GE, which is the OEM, to supply for the GE-404 engine for its maintenance.

They have also improved the thrust and efficiency of the AL-31FP engine, so the Air Force is happy and has increased service life, having more control over supply chains. Though thrust issues could be handled by additional flight control laws that would prevent such pilot errors, there may be some technical issue that they choose not to address, as this proposal is very old.

 

[Steel Mathi]

AL-41 and AL-51 engines can be accepted if Russia provides at least 80 percent ToT to India.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

If we have indigenized AL-31F engines by 60+%, we must design our own engine of similar or slightly higher capacity.