Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is set to resume the licensed production of Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets at its Nashik facility. The public sector aerospace major plans to deliver 12 new aircraft by 2029, marking a significant return to manufacturing these Russian-origin fighters for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The first of these new Su-30MKIs is anticipated to be delivered during the 2027-28 fiscal year. This new order, valued at an estimated ₹11,000 crore, was reportedly placed in December 2024 to replace jets lost in previous accidents. A key condition of the contract mandates that these new aircraft incorporate more than 50% indigenous content, boosting India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Boost for Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
HAL's Nashik plant has a long history of producing Russian-origin fighter aircraft, having previously manufactured 222 Su-30MKIs under license. Beyond the Sukhoi program, the facility is also actively involved in the production of India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
Major Upgrade Program for Existing Fleet
In addition to new production, the Nashik facility is poised to play a crucial role in a comprehensive upgrade program for the existing Su-30MKI fleet. This extensive modernization effort is projected to cost around ₹60,000 crore and will likely involve substantial support from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), with many major components sourced from India's private sector.
The upgrade is planned in two distinct phases. The initial phase will concentrate on integrating advanced avionics and new radar systems. It will also introduce a new electronic warfare system designed to jam incoming threats and enhance the aircraft's targeting capabilities with improved infrared search-and-track (IRST) systems. The second phase will address updates to the flight control systems.
A critical aspect of this upgrade is the potential inclusion of a new indigenous radar. This development aims to significantly improve the aircraft’s ability to detect and engage targets at much greater distances, addressing previous concerns within the Indian Air Force regarding the radar capabilities of older Su-30MKI models.