By Chaitali Bag
In a significant advancement for India’s defence capabilities and the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, the Ministry of Defence has formalized a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft, along with associated equipment, at an estimated cost of ₹13,500 crores, inclusive of taxes and duties. This procurement marks a pivotal step in enhancing the operational efficiency of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and underscores the government’s commitment to fostering indigenous defence production.
The Su-30MKI, a twin-engine, multirole air superiority fighter developed by the Russian manufacturer Sukhoi and produced under license by HAL, is designed to operate in all weather conditions and boasts long-range capabilities. The aircraft’s indigenous content has been significantly increased to 62.6%, thanks to the indigenization of numerous components that will be manufactured by the Indian defence industry. This move not only exemplifies the government’s push for self-reliance but also aims to bolster the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The manufacturing of these aircraft will take place at HAL’s Nasik division, further contributing to local employment and technological advancement. The infusion of advanced technology into the Su-30MKI fleet is crucial for maintaining the IAF’s edge in aerial combat. Recent contracts, including a ₹26,000-crore agreement for advanced engines to be produced at HAL’s Koraput division, reflect a comprehensive strategy to sustain the operational capabilities of the Su-30 fleet and ensure that the IAF remains a formidable force in the region.
India’s defence production landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, with the government actively promoting domestic manufacturing. The recent surge in defence contracts, amounting to ₹1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24—a staggering increase of approximately 174% from ₹46,429 crores in 2014-15—highlights the success of this policy. Historically, India relied heavily on imports for its defence needs, with approximately 65-70% of defence equipment sourced from abroad. However, the current trajectory indicates a remarkable turnaround, with around 65% of defence equipment now being manufactured within India.
The modernization of the Su-30MKI fleet is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing the IAF’s capabilities. The “Super Sukhoi” project, which focuses on upgrading 84 Su-30MKIs, is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technologies that will significantly improve the aircraft’s combat effectiveness. Key features of the upgraded Su-30MKI include a next-generation AESA radar for superior target tracking and electronic warfare, advanced avionics for better mission integration, and enhanced weaponry such as the BrahMos-A cruise missile and Astra BVR missiles. These upgrades will ensure that the aircraft can effectively engage in diverse missions while maintaining robust protection against emerging threats.
Furthermore, the collaboration between India and the United States to manufacture advanced GE engines at HAL’s facilities signifies a strategic partnership that promises to elevate India’s defence manufacturing capabilities to new heights. This cooperation not only enhances technological transfer but also positions India as a key player in the global defence manufacturing arena.
The procurement of the Su-30MKI aircraft represents a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence production under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. By fostering indigenous manufacturing and reducing dependency on imports, India is not only enhancing its defence preparedness but also paving the way for a robust and self-sustaining defence industry. As the nation continues to invest in advanced technologies and strengthen its military capabilities, the future of India’s defence sector appears increasingly promising.
