New Delhi: India has unveiled an extensive plan aimed at bolstering the capabilities of its fleet of Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets, originally designed by Russias Sukhoi Corporation and licensed-produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The initiative seeks to equip the jets with advanced technologies including state-of-the-art radars, avionics, longer-range weaponry, and multi-sensor fusion technology. These enhancements are designed to extend the operational lifespan of the Sukhoi-30MKI by another 30 years, ensuring continued air combat superiority.Central to Indias upgrade strategy is the integration of indigenous technologies, highlighted by the development of a domestic Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system. This system promises enhanced sensor fusion capabilities and direct integration with weapon systems, enabling improved targeting accuracy and pre-launch coordination of air-to-air missiles.IAF to enhance Sukhoi-30MKIs capabilities The Indian Air Force (IAF) is spearheading efforts to enhance the Sukhoi-30MKIs capabilities with advanced radar systems, notably the indigenous Virupaaksha radar, anticipated to be the most sophisticated among all variants globally. Concurrently, the IAF is advancing upgrades in avionics, electronic warfare systems, and weaponry, aiming to replace existing Russian systems with indigenous alternatives.Crucial for India This comprehensive modernization initiative is crucial for India to maintain air superiority, particularly amid growing concerns over regional adversaries equipped with more advanced fighter aircraft featuring Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar technology. By elevating the Sukhoi-30MKI to Super Sukhoi standards, India aims to bolster its defense capabilities and achieve greater self-reliance in defense manufacturing.However, the upgrade program has encountered setbacks and delays, exacerbated by international sanctions on Russia due to the conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions have hindered the planned enhancement of the 260-license-built Sukhoi Su-30MKI jets, intended to align them with Russias most advanced Su-30 SM2 variant.
