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.

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/Sukhwinder104/status/2005 ... 17870?s=20 ---> The Su-30 MKI fleet would soon feature:

1) SDR package for networked engagements(quite a few jets already are equipped with it).

2) 150 - 200+ km range BVRAAM in the form of the Astra Mk2.

3) Next Generation Anti Radiation missiles in the form of Rudram II and III.

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/Platypuss_10/status/20056 ... 08729?s=20 ---> Indian Air Force Su-30MKI pilots preparing for the sortie during Exercise Garuda 25!

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/Platypuss_10/status/20056 ... 19712?s=20 ---> IAF Su-30Mki over France during Exercise Garuda 25 earlier this month!

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/JaidevJamwal/status/20091 ... 88085?s=20 ---> Old photo of Su-30 assembly in India.

[Cybaru]

Should have ordered atleast 2 more squadrons - we let it idle... Super30 config.

[pravula]

Should have ordered atleast 2 more squadrons - we let it idle... Super30 config.

The line is active again fyi. Nothing stopping us from adding to the order

[Cybaru]

Should have ordered atleast 2 more squadrons - we let it idle... Super30 config.

The line is active again fyi. Nothing stopping us from adding to the order

Just our foresight and will..

[Rakesh]

https://x.com/hindookissinger/status/20 ... 44535?s=20 ---> That's why MKI-SS is crucial. We need to operate 25 squadrons of upgraded MKIs, of which 15 to SuperSukhoi squadrons, 12 conventional and 2 EW variants of MKI. This is the lowest hanging fruit for IAF. They just have to take it.

[Khalsa]

Nice
when will it happen ?

[Manish_P]

https://x.com/hindookissinger/status/20 ... 44535?s=20 ---> That's why MKI-SS is crucial. We need to operate 25 squadrons of upgraded MKIs, of which 15 to SuperSukhoi squadrons, 12 conventional and 2 EW variants of MKI. This is the lowest hanging fruit for IAF. They just have to take it.
...

It's natural progression and will happen.

I am curious about the RAM treatment.

Given the sheer size of the big bird and it's inherent non-stealthy shape with external hardpoints, just what magnitude of RCS reduction is realistically achievable? Will it even reach Rafale level?

[pravula]

https://x.com/hindookissinger/status/20 ... 44535?s=20 ---> That's why MKI-SS is crucial. We need to operate 25 squadrons of upgraded MKIs, of which 15 to SuperSukhoi squadrons, 12 conventional and 2 EW variants of MKI. This is the lowest hanging fruit for IAF. They just have to take it.
...

It's natural progression and will happen.

I am curious about the RAM treatment.

Given the sheer size of the big bird and it's inherent non-stealthy shape with external hardpoints, just what magnitude of RCS reduction is realistically achievable? Will it even reach Rafale level?

Is it ok if it reaches F15E level?

[Manish_P]

...
Is it ok if it reaches F15E level?

Any improvement is welcome in the unforgiving world of aerial warfare. More speed, more weaponry, more manouverability. And less visibility.

However my query at this moment is more academic than hardcore technical.

[Rakesh]

It would be hard pressed to give even an educated guess, without the IAF actually commenting on it.

In absence of this, we will be (as we say in Hindi)....

अंधेरे में तीर चलाना
andhere mein teer chalaana

And the IAF will never comment on something like this.

[Manish_P]

...
अंधेरे में तीर चलाना
andhere mein teer chalaana
...

Andhera aids stealth even more so there is that....

The IAF will never give the info of course. Nor will the opponents..

My very uneducated, armchair enthusiast guess would be that it would be good if it could drop to the level of the regular MiG 29. Down to the Mirage 2000 level would be some ask and I really doubt it.

Anyway all improvements are most welcome and needed as of yesterday

[krisna]

India has variety of jets
latest being rafale in addition to su-30MKI.

India under PVN rescued sukhoi bureau from almost bankruptcy. Mig did not do well after initial mig series of aircrafts. India gave monies su 30s contiued to be successful. This is history.

Ditto with dassault- it had virtually no big buyer. they had no monies helped by france govt and was sort of being small and eventually disappear with time. The aircraft was sneered intially at in europe - france being france. america was all over europe with its weapons etc. India entered the fray changed its image.

India has great reputation outside India itself with its weapons assessment amongst global south and western powers as it greatly enhances the stature of any weapons certified by Indian forces. rafale being the winner helped improve the image of rafale. many countries evinced more interest after India selected rafale(sort of booster effect). Dassault survived as company in competition of military aircrafts.

During operation Sindoor - though rafale got the limleight , the maximum damage was done by su-30 mki. It carried brahmos which destroyed many terr0istan weapon facilites hangars etc . rafale may be good in other aspects but bulk damage was done by su 30 mki. With only rafale and its scalp etc , not much would have happened to terr0istan facilities. rafale cannot carry brahmos and did not during operation sindoor. rafale dropped about 8-10 scalp missiles due to its supply constraints. Su 30 mki upto 20 brahmos dropped with no retalaition as there exists none today for brahmos.

Both did not cross the border and enter terr0sitan airspace. All fired weapons inside Indian borders.

Guess the signal was to highlight rafale use as IAF liked it with its good features . Hence every media went to town with its usefulness. It was also good for france PR.

key element to note is - both su 30 mki and brahmos manufactured in India- any numbers can be manufactured and supply will not be an issue during war times. Rafale with scalp and other foreign missiles will be short supply at war times. Hence rafale is less useful overall other than initial surprise and taking out important radar electronic networks etc . of course this will change if france agrees to what Russia does to India with indigenisation/Indian weapons. main bum trucks will be su series aircrafts curently.

Russia and France weapons-

Russia trusts India a lot- hence allows India to tinker its own aircraft add indian weapons software etc. It is very confident of India respecting its own software and hardware. there is a certain degree of trust between the two countries. IIRC Russia only allows India but does not other countries the degree of freedom which is unparalleled in the world today.

Other angle is monetary also- India freely takes weapons from all if it helps itself(India). Russia knows that it will never sell its weapons because usa embargoes it in many countries. Thru India and its tinkering Russia gains leverage and monies. Ex Brahmos made the most powerful of its kind by India thru Russian tech initially . By exporting India gains leverage in world of weapons export and Russia gets appro 50% money for its tech export. So net gain gain for Russia(sanctions prone) and India.


India wants su 57 aircraft - likley will order few squadrons after India usa deal signed or something like that. Putin kaka is ok with this arrangement. some noises will be made meanwhile. Su 57 will be customizable for Indian needs with Indian weapons. This whole package is more potent than rafale with its costly bells and whistles with no tech transfer.

France is getting a little more cozy with India -- may be 10 years behind Russia. It is slowly allowing India but yet holding onto its important tech. Again its markets depend on India doing well and helping it market the weapons. hopefully India can wrest some major concessions from france in its rafale deal.

Only India can help major countries be it europe russia usa . probabaly even china but dragon will it change its behaviour, gives back our ladakh territory drops Arunachal Pradesh claim , gives up manasa sarovar kailash mountain etc etc

usa will be a major loser irresepctive of POTUS monkey circus- because of being superpower with its mischief potential. India is cautious on certain things- going slow taking time likley wrt su-aircraft deal with russia.

hope we reach more than 45 squadrons of aircraft with no worries in next 6-10 years . prefer upto 60 if possible.

[uddu]

We rescue everyone else, but not ourselves. Atithi Devo Bhava.

[ashthor]

We rescue everyone else, but not ourselves. Atithi Devo Bhava.

Well put. See how the new of so many types missile coming in from a friendly country while ours is drip fed.

To me it looks like a last ditch effort to make much $$ as they can before the gates gets closed (looks like efforts are being made to keep it open).

[uddu]

We rescue everyone else, but not ourselves. Atithi Devo Bhava.

Well put. See how the new of so many types missile coming in from a friendly country while ours is drip fed.

To me it looks like a last ditch effort to make much $$ as they can before the gates gets closed (looks like efforts are being made to keep it open).

True. From Taraus to Bullsye to whatnot.