SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s air defense capabilities, the Ministry of Defence has inked a contract worth INR 13,500 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets. This deal marks a continuation of India’s strategic partnership with Russia, focusing on enhancing the strength of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The manufacturing of these aircraft will take place at HAL’s Nashik division, which has not seen the production of the Su-30 MKI since completing the last batch of 12 aircraft in the fiscal year 2019-20. This new agreement, coming after a four-year hiatus, signifies a revival of the production line, with manufacturing expected to commence early next year.
According to sources within HAL, the company is actively working on resolving supply chain-related issues to ensure that the production can start without further delays. The Su-30 MKI, a twinjet multirole air superiority fighter, has been a cornerstone of the IAF’s combat strength, and its continued production is critical for maintaining the fleet’s operational readiness.
This contract not only strengthens the IAF’s fleet but also underscores the government’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defense sector. With an indigenous content of 62.6%, these aircraft will incorporate significant Indian-made components, thereby boosting local manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign parts.
The Su-30 MKI has been a successful joint venture between India and Russia, with HAL playing a pivotal role in the assembly and production under license. The aircraft’s versatility, capability to engage in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, and its proven track record in various exercises and real-world scenarios make it a vital asset for India’s defense strategy.
The reactivation of the Nashik production line for the Su-30 MKI will also mean job preservation and creation in the defense sector, along with fostering skill development in aerospace manufacturing. As HAL gears up for this production phase, the focus will be on ensuring quality, timely delivery, and adherence to the latest specifications to meet the IAF’s operational requirements.