Su-30MKI: News and Discussion - 24 July 2021

[ashthor]

No of Squadrons move to 57 now we have space of Su-57. Both the forces and the babus are creative.

[Manish_P]

In these 57 squadrons plan how many will be western engined and how many will be with Russian engines?

[Rakesh]

All this talk of moving to 57 squadrons is to justify the import of 114 Rafales + the Su-57 or some other VLO fighter. Air HQ has spent the past 25 years struggling to hit 42 squadrons. Good luck with 57 squadrons!

[uddu]

https://x.com/alpha_defense/status/1986030209267826763
@alpha_defense
The New Su30 that will come out of assembly lines will have GaN based EW systems.
Essentially the most formidable jamming capability in our arsenal.

[uddu]

https://x.com/InsightGL/status/1985905517504716809
@InsightGL
-Network-centric warfare milestone
-2 Tejas, one in silent mode executed a cooperative kill in 2024
-Lead Tejas locked & illuminated Banshee drone & trailing launched Astra BVR
-Direct hit at 70km without breaking silence
-Next #IndianAirForce Su-30MKI & Tejas trials in early ‘26

[sudhan]

https://x.com/InsightGL/status/1985905517504716809
@InsightGL
-Network-centric warfare milestone
-2 Tejas, one in silent mode executed a cooperative kill in 2024
-Lead Tejas locked & illuminated Banshee drone & trailing launched Astra BVR
-Direct hit at 70km without breaking silence
-Next #IndianAirForce Su-30MKI & Tejas trials in early ‘26

Excellent!

This should theoretically mean that Astra can (or already capable) receive mid course updates from AWACS platforms.. this would mean:

1. Put the target on Datalink lock.
2. Fire the BVR missile
3. Immediately go defensive, avoiding the need to keep the target illuminated till end game chase can begin with the missile's own radar.
4. Or, keep pushing offensively and fire another higher PK shot giving the bandit very little chance of retaliating..



All without turning on its own radar.

[Prem Kumar]

These are world-class capabilities! But without adequate Astra orders (to arm the Sukhoi & Tejas fleets), these just remain tech-demonstrators. Or useful only in small skirmishes

We have cheap & cutting-edge missiles - a rare combination. What we need are large inductions

[Rakesh]

Interesting details on the Super Sukhoi upgrade....

India, Russia likely to discuss defence projects including Su-30 overhaul, S-400/500, Verba, R-37 during Putin visit
https://aninews.in/news/national/genera ... 204201319/
04 Dec 2025

[Kartik]

Interesting details on the Super Sukhoi upgrade....

India, Russia likely to discuss defence projects including Su-30 overhaul, S-400/500, Verba, R-37 during Putin visit
https://aninews.in/news/national/genera ... 204201319/
04 Dec 2025

There are no details given other than the point that the second overhaul and upgrade is for another 100 Su-30MKIs and is separate from the Super Sukhoi upgrade being pursued for 83 of them.

[Rakesh]

HAL-DRDO’s masterplan! Su-30MKI to be 78% indigenously developed; IAF to dominate skies till…
https://news24online.com/tech/hal-drdos ... ll/695075/
25 Dec 2025

The Sukhoi Su-30MKI has been the backbone of the Indian Air Force for decades. As warfare technology evolves, India plans to upgrade the aircraft completely, replacing its outdated systems and transforming it into a new-generation fighter. The Ministry of Defense aims to ensure that India no longer depends on Russia or other countries for maintenance and updates. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will lead the project, collaborating with DRDO and Indian private companies to develop advanced components. This initiative will not only strengthen the Air Force but also inject thousands of crores into India’s defense industry.

78% Indigenous Content: What Will Change?

The 78% target set by the Ministry of Defense is no small figure. Under this target, almost every major component of the aircraft will be replaced with indigenous technology.

• Sensors and Radar: The aircraft’s “eyes” will feature Indian-made systems, including the state-of-the-art Uttam AESA radar, capable of detecting enemies from long distances.

• Mission Computer: The “brain” of the fighter will be fully developed in India, enabling faster and independent decision-making during combat.

• Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite: The system that helps evade missiles and jam enemy radar will now be indigenously built.

• Weapons Integration: India’s missiles, such as Astra and BrahMos, will integrate seamlessly with the Su-30MKI for enhanced accuracy.

HAL and DRDO Take the Lead

HAL will oversee the entire program, ensuring that all components work together efficiently. The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) will develop new technologies and weapons for the aircraft.

Why is it important for the Air Force?

Indigenization isn’t just a slogan for the Air Force; it’s a necessity. When technology is our own, we don’t need to seek permission from foreign companies to update it. We can make changes as needed. Often, there are delays in the arrival of spare parts from Russia, leaving many aircraft grounded. This problem will be eliminated once 78% of our aircraft are indigenous. The aircraft’s software will be in Indian hands, preventing the enemy from hacking or tracking our technology.

Boost for the Defense Industry

The Sukhoi upgrade will stimulate India’s defense market. Companies producing parts for hundreds of aircraft will establish new factories and labs, creating jobs for thousands of engineers and technicians.

[Rakesh]

Posting a series of gorgeous Rambha images from Exercise Ocean Sky 2025 in Spain. Enjoy!

https://x.com/officialTatya_1/status/19 ... 00510?s=20 ---> Twin MKIs lifting off at OceanSky25. Credit: Shaun Henry

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/officialTatya_1/status/20 ... 31833?s=20 ---> No. 24 Sqn IAF "Hawks" during Exercise Ocean Sky 2025 with Spanish Air Force over Canary Islands. Credit: Antonio Rodriguez Santana

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/officialTatya_1/status/20 ... 27858?s=20 ---> I loved that Rinnegan eyes #IAF #Su30MKI #ExGaruda25

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/Platypuss_10/status/20052 ... 72205?s=20 --->

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/Platypuss_10/status/20052 ... 01888?s=20 ---> Indian Air Force Su-30MKI during Exercise Ocean 25 Sky in Spain!

[neeraj]

HAL-DRDO’s masterplan! Su-30MKI to be 78% indigenously developed; IAF to dominate skies till…
https://news24online.com/tech/hal-drdos ... ll/695075/
25 Dec 2025

• Sensors and Radar: The aircraft’s “eyes” will feature Indian-made systems, including the state-of-the-art Uttam AESA radar, capable of detecting enemies from long distances.

Uttam is in the final stages of testing for the last 1 year. Even HAL is no longer using for LCA until ready hopefully in 2027. Sab chalta hai attitude.

[Rakesh]

Uttam is in the final stages of testing for the last 1 year. Even HAL is no longer using for LCA until ready hopefully in 2027. Sab chalta hai attitude.

Sirjee, chalta hai attitude is only for desi maal.

114 MRFA (aka Rafale) is Air HQ's top priority.