SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s premier aerospace and defence manufacturer, has successfully navigated supply chain hurdles for its Su-30 MKI fighter jet fleet, according to HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil. Speaking to Flightglobal, Sunil revealed that while sourcing spares and components from Russia was challenging in 2024, the situation has now stabilized, ensuring a steady flow of critical supplies to maintain the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) frontline multirole fighter.
The Su-30 MKI, a mainstay of the IAF’s combat fleet, relies on Russian-origin components and spares for maintenance and operational readiness. In 2024, HAL faced significant challenges in procuring these supplies due to Russia’s prioritization of its own defence requirements, which strained its export capabilities. “They do have some issues because their plants are running full for their own purposes,” Sunil explained, referring to Russian manufacturers’ focus on domestic needs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Despite these difficulties, HAL’s proactive engagement with Russian suppliers has yielded positive results. “We’ve been in regular discussions with them, and we’re getting the supplies,” Sunil told Flightglobal. This stabilization of the supply chain is a critical development, ensuring that the IAF’s Su-30 MKI fleet—comprising over 250 aircraft—remains fully operational and mission-ready.
The supply chain challenges in 2024 posed a risk to the fleet’s maintenance schedules, potentially impacting the IAF’s operational tempo. However, HAL’s efforts to secure a consistent supply of spares and components underscore its commitment to supporting the IAF’s strategic objectives. The stabilization of supplies also reflects the resilience of India-Russia defence cooperation, a key pillar of India’s defence procurement strategy.
As the primary manufacturer and maintenance provider for the Su-30 MKI in India, HAL plays a pivotal role in ensuring the fleet’s longevity and performance. The company has been working to enhance its in-house capabilities, including the production of certain components and the overhaul of engines and systems, to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. These efforts align with India’s broader push for self-reliance under the Make in India initiative, which seeks to bolster indigenous defence manufacturing.
HAL’s ability to resolve supply chain issues through dialogue with Russian partners highlights its strategic importance as a bridge between foreign technology providers and the IAF’s operational needs. The company’s focus on maintaining the Su-30 MKI fleet also complements its ongoing projects, such as the development of the Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), aimed at modernizing India’s air combat capabilities.
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