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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are preparing to commence the long-anticipated ‘Super Sukhoi’ upgrade program, a significant modernization initiative for the Su-30MKI fleet. The program aims to enhance 84 Su-30MKIs with advanced avionics, radar, weapon systems, and electronic warfare capabilities, bringing them close to fifth-generation fighter standards, albeit without stealth features. This project is crucial for ensuring the Su-30MKI’s operational relevance until at least 2060.

The Super Sukhoi upgrade will be executed in two main phases, with each phase incorporating progressively advanced technologies to enhance the Su-30MKI’s performance.

First Tranche of 84 Aircraft: The initial phase of the upgrade will begin with 84 Su-30MKIs, which will be fitted with systems and technology derived from the Tejas Mk1A and MkII programs. These upgrades will include:

  • Upgraded Avionics: Integration of more advanced avionics for improved situational awareness, inspired by the Tejas Mk1A and MkII platforms.
  • Enhanced Radar and Sensor Systems: A new AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar is expected, enabling better tracking, detection, and targeting of multiple threats.
  • Electronic Warfare and Self-Protection Systems: Advanced EW capabilities will provide improved survivability in contested airspaces.
  • Better Weapons Integration: The upgraded fighters will have compatibility with the latest air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, enhancing the fleet’s strike capabilities.

Second Tranche of 84 Aircraft: Following the first tranche, a second phase will see another 84 Su-30MKIs undergo upgrades incorporating cutting-edge technologies from India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This second tranche, anticipated around 2030, is expected to bring in:

  • Next-Gen Avionics and Sensors: Futuristic avionics and sensor packages from the AMCA program, further enhance situational awareness and targeting precision.
  • Data Fusion Capabilities: Enhanced data-linking and network-centric warfare capabilities, allowing the upgraded Su-30MKIs to operate seamlessly in a modern, integrated battlefield environment.
  • Extended Survivability Enhancements: Futuristic stealth-adjacent technologies (such as reduced radar signature features) may be included to minimize detection in high-threat environments.

This two-phased approach will enable the Su-30MKI fleet to maintain combat relevance while gradually adopting technological advances, and keeping pace with evolving aerial warfare needs.

The AMCA program, India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter initiative, will serve as a technology incubator for the Super Sukhoi project. Key advancements from AMCA that could be adapted for the Super Sukhois include:

Advanced Mission Computers: High-speed mission computers for data processing and information sharing in real-time.

Next-Gen Electronic Warfare Suite: A more comprehensive electronic warfare suite with improved jamming, countermeasure, and threat detection systems.

New Cockpit Displays: An advanced cockpit with larger, touch-sensitive displays, providing pilots with clearer data and ease of control.

With 270 Su-30MKIs in service, IAF’s current fleet is among the largest outside Russia. However, at least 100 of the older Su-30MKI aircraft are set to be gradually retired from 2035 onward. The Super Sukhoi program’s timeline has been structured to ensure that the remaining fleet remains relevant, potent, and technologically aligned with the IAF’s future combat requirements.

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