In a major upgrade plan for its airforce capabilities, India in talks with Russia to upgrade the Indian Air Force Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter jet fleet.
Indian Air Force (IAF), which has been planning to upgrade its Su-30MKI aircraft to the Super Sukhoi category, is now in advanced talks with Russia and defense PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). A decision is likely in the next six to nine months.
The Indian Air Force operates more than 1,700 aircraft, including approximately 900 combat aircraft, according to the latest estimates as of 2020. In which India operates 272 heavy class multirole fighter jet Sukhoi 30 MKI. The second-largest operator of this meaty air superiority fighter jet. To keep the platform updated for the future 5th generation warfare, India plans to upgrade its IAF Sukhoi fleet with near 5th generation capabilities.
Indian Air Force would be significantly enhancing its combat capabilities by upgrading its most formidable SU-30MKI fighters to the approaching level of Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft, which India plans to develop jointly with the Russian Sukhoi company.
The upgraded Super Sukhoi would also have advanced stealth characteristics. The Super Sukhoi can also be equipped with other long-range missiles like the R-27P (AA-10 D) infrared homing extended-range version of 120 km distance.
Besides medium-range missiles like R-77 (AA-12) with active radar homing medium range 100 km along with other 80 km medium-range missiles can also be added.
