Latest news with #Super-30
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Super Su-30: India plans Rs 60,000 crore booster for its main fighter jet. From radars to missiles, here's what it'll get
India is speeding up efforts to modernise its air combat fleet as tensions with Pakistan and China remain high. The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently has only 31–32 operational fighter squadrons, far below the sanctioned strength of 41–42. Each squadron has about 18 fighter jets and two trainers. To close this gap, the Defence Ministry is focusing on acquiring new aircraft and upgrading the existing Su-30MKI fleet under the "Super-30" project. Su-30MKI to be upgraded for future needs The Su-30MKI is the IAF's main combat aircraft. Developed jointly with Russia, it is a 4.5-generation jet. India currently operates 272 Su-30MKIs. Under the Super-30 project , 84 of these jets are reportedly being planned for an upgrade over the next 3–4 years. The upgrade is expected to cost between $2.4 and $7.8 billion (₹66,829 crore), as reported by India Defense News. These upgrades aim to extend the operational life of the aircraft until 2055. Twelve Su-30MKIs have been lost in crashes. The government has asked Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to produce 12 more to replace these losses, at a cost of ₹13,500 crore. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Scientists: Tinnitus? When tinnitus won't go away, do this (Watch) Hearing Magazine Undo What's changing in the Super-30 upgrade? Several key systems will be added or replaced in the Su-30MKI as part of the upgrade: Virupaksha radar: Developed by DRDO, this new radar is based on gallium nitride (GaN) technology and uses an active electronically scanned array (AESA) design. It can detect targets up to 300–400 km away and includes 2,400 transmit-receive modules. Live Events Digital cockpit: The aircraft will receive a modern user interface and new avionics to improve pilot awareness and onboard system coordination. Flight control system: A new 64-bit Digital Flight Control Computer will replace the older 32-bit system, enhancing flight performance and stability. Air-to-air missiles: The aircraft will be equipped with indigenous Astra Mk-2 and Mk-3 missiles, which can engage targets up to 300 km away. Russian R-37M integration: This hypersonic missile, with a 400 km range and speeds up to Mach 6, is designed for long-range air combat. Other additions include a new electronic warfare suite, improved secure communication systems, and a modern infrared search and track (IRST) system. Focus on stealth detection and future radars Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit recently said that a photonics radar is being considered for both the Su-30MKI and Rafale fleets. 'This radar will significantly improve the aircraft's ability to identify and track stealth targets due to its advanced sensing capabilities.' Photonics radar uses light-based components, which are faster and more resistant to jamming than traditional systems. Engine choice: reliability over raw power There will be no engine upgrade as India has decided to retain the current AL-31FP engine for its Su-30MKI fleet, instead of switching to Russia's more powerful AL-41F1S engine. The AL-31FP generates 123 kN of thrust, while the AL-41F1S offers 142 kN. Addressing the broader fighter shortfall India originally planned to buy 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) but ended up purchasing only 36 Rafales. Former Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria had said, 'The IAF needs around 250 aircraft of Rafale-class capability to meet future operational requirements.' The indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, despite facing delays due to engine supply issues, continues to be a key part of the IAF's future plans. The IAF plans to induct 352 Tejas fighters across Mk1 and Mk2 variants. A strategic upgrade in response to evolving threats The Super-30 project comes after lessons learned during the 2019 Balakot and Operation Sindoor air strikes. During the Balakot strikes, Su-30MKIs were reportedly at a disadvantage compared to Pakistan's F-16s due to inferior radar and sensors. Similar deficiencies were observed when Su-30s equipped with R-77 missiles, which have a BVR range of nearly 100 km, were found lacking against Pakistan's JF-17s equipped with PL-15E missiles, which have a range of nearly 150 km. The planned upgrades aim to address these weaknesses by improving detection range, missile reach, and combat readiness. The modernisation also boosts India's deterrence capabilities against regional rivals, especially as China and Pakistan continue to upgrade their air fleets. Preparing for the next generation India is also working on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation fighter jet project led by DRDO and HAL. It will include stealth features, internal weapon storage, advanced avionics, and supercruise capability. The aim is to produce a fully indigenous next-gen fighter within the next decade.
News18
03-07-2025
- Business
- News18
India's Su-30MKI Set For Rs 66,829 Cr Super-30 Upgrade, To Outclass Pakistan's F-16s
Last Updated: The Super-30 project will equip Su-30MKI with DRDO's Virupaksha AESA radar, using gallium nitride tech to detect enemy targets up to 300–400 km away Modern warfare has shifted from large-scale ground operations to precision-driven air and naval dominance, with drones and missile strikes playing a central role—as seen in global conflicts and India's own Operation Sindoor. Facing threats from both Pakistan and China, India is ramping up its defence capabilities. The government is investing heavily in advanced fighter jets, missile systems, warships, and other cutting-edge technology to modernise its armed forces and stay ahead in an increasingly high-tech battlefield. A key priority for India is upgrading its fighter jet fleet. The Indian Air Force currently operates 31–32 squadrons, well below the required strength of 41–42, raising serious concerns within the defence establishment. In response, the government and Defence Ministry are actively addressing the gap. India is exploring the acquisition of fifth-generation fighter jets and has fast-tracked the production of the indigenous Tejas multirole aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin by year-end. As part of these modernisation efforts, a master plan has been devised to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet, a cornerstone of the Indian Air Force fleet, under the Super-30 project. What Is The Super-30 Project? The Su-30MKI, a 4.5-generation fighter jet imported from Russia, is set for a major upgrade to meet modern combat requirements. Under the Super-30 program, 84 jets will be upgraded over the next 3–4 years, at an estimated cost of $2.4 to $7.8 billion (around Rs 66,829 crore), according to India Defense News. Post-upgrade, the Su-30MKI is expected to remain operational until 2055. Meanwhile, India is advancing its indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet program. DRDO and HAL have launched the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, aiming to develop a homegrown fifth-generation fighter within the next decade. The Super-30 project includes the integration of the gallium nitride-based active electronically scanned array radar (AESA), known as the Virupaksha radar, developed by DRDO, capable of detecting targets 300-400 kilometres away. Additionally, the Su-30MKI cockpit will be fully digitised, and equipped with indigenous air-to-air missiles like Astra MK-2 and Astra MK-3 Gandiva, capable of engaging enemies from a distance of 300 kilometres. Can It Outmatch Pakistan's F-16s? Upgrading the Su-30MKI is expected to significantly enhance its combat capabilities, putting pressure on both Pakistan and China. During the 2019 Balakot air strike, the Su-30MKI reportedly struggled against Pakistan's F-16s, mainly due to radar limitations. With the planned upgrades, these shortcomings are set to be addressed, potentially neutralising threats from rival jets like the F-16. Concurrently, India continues its efforts to develop next-generation fighter jets, solidifying its position in modern aerial combat capabilities.
India.com
03-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Not Rafale, F-35, Tejas, THIS fighter jet will cost Rs 668290000000, its name is, what is Super-30 program? Is it game over for F-16?
Not Rafale, F-35, Tejas, THIS fighter jet will cost Rs 668290000000, its name is, what is Super-30 program? Is it game over for F-16? In the last 20-25 years, there have been radical changes in the defense sector. Along with fighter jets and missiles, a lot of attention is also being paid to drones. This was seen in the war between Israel-Iran and India-Pakistan. In the modern age, the role of the Air Force and Navy have also become very important. After the Pahalgam attack, the army was also used limitedly in Operation Sindoor launched by India. Missile operations played a major role along with the Air Force. Drones have also emerged as an important factor. Strengthening Air Force At present, 41 to 42 squadrons of fighter jets are needed, but only 31 to 32 squadrons are available. In such a situation, the Indian Air Force is short of about 10 squadrons of fighter jets. And so there is talk of increasing the squadrons. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has accelerated the production of multirole Tejas fighter jet. Its delivery is expected to start from the end of this year. India's masterplan A masterplan has been prepared to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet, the backbone of the Indian Air Force fleet. It has been named Super-30. A project to upgrade Su-30MKI has been launched with the cooperation of Russia. Su-30MKI is a 4.5 generation fighter jet which India has imported it from Russia. Initially, there is a plan to upgrade 84 Su-30MKI fighter jets, which may take 3 to 4 years. It has been named Super-30 program. According to the report of 'India Defense News', this project is likely to cost 2.4 to 7.8 billion dollars (Rs 66829 crores). After the upgrade, Su-30MKI fighter jet will be fit for service by the year 2055. In this period, India's indigenous fighter jet project will also reach its destination and the country will be able to make fifth generation fighter aircraft at home. Let us tell you that DRDO and HAL have taken steps towards making 5th generation fighter jet. For this, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project has been launched. It is expected that the fifth generation aircraft will be made in India in the next ten years. Su-30MKI will be more lethal There is a plan to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet and make it more lethal and effective. Under the Super-30 program, there is a plan to integrate gallium nitride based active electronically scanned array radar (AESA) in the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft. It is also known as Virupaksha radar, which has been developed by DRDO. Through this, targets located 300-400 kilometers away can be detected. It will prove to be very effective during war. Apart from this, the cockpit of Su-30MKI will be made completely digital. Along with this, indigenous air-to-air missiles that destroy enemies from a distance of 300 kilometers will also be fitted in it. There is a plan to integrate missiles like Astra MK-2 and Astra MK-3 Gandiva in Su-30MKI. Fighter jets like F-16 will be retired After upgrading the Su-30MKI fighter jet, Pakistan's condition will worsen and China will also not try to do anything adventurous. In fact, during the Balakot air strike in 2019, the Su-30MKI had to face difficulties in competing with the Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft. The pilot of the Su-30MKI had to struggle especially due to radar limitations. In such a situation, upgrading the Su-30MKI is sure to eliminate fighter jets like the F-16. On the other hand, India is also investing extensively in making the next generation fighter jet.
India.com
01-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
Russia Offers Stealth Beast Su-57E To India With ‘Make-in-India' Twist
New Delhi: After the high-stakes 'Operation Sindoor', tensions between India and Pakistan have once again surged. In this new phase of defense recalibration, the spotlight is now on fifth-generation fighter jets. Russia has once again offered India its most advanced export fighter jet, the Su-57E. But this time, it is not just a sales pitch. The offer comes with a promise – deeper localisation, seamless integration with Indian systems and full support for Make-in-India defense ambitions. This new proposal includes some of the key technologies originally planned for India's Super-30 program, which is meant to upgrade the IAF's Su-30MKI fleet. The Su-57E would be equipped with GaN-based AESA radar and indigenous Indian mission computers. These additions not only supercharge Su-57E's combat capability but also ensure technical similarity with the Super-30 jets, streamlining maintenance and logistics for the Indian Air Force. Desi Missiles for a Russian Machine The real game-changer? The Su-57E would carry Indian-made beyond-visual-range air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles. This reduces dependency on foreign suppliers and aligns perfectly with India's growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Russia is also ready to allow India to make custom modifications to the aircraft. Sources suggest that even source codes and technology transfer are on the table. That means Indian firms, including HAL and private players, could co-produce this stealth jet. What Makes the Su-57E So Deadly? The Su-57E is Russia's only fifth-generation stealth fighter, designed to evade even the most advanced radar systems. It boasts of stealth shaping for low observability, supercruise capability and R-37M missiles with a staggering 400 km range. Moscow claims that the Su-57E outperforms even the French Rafale in certain combat scenarios, particularly in range and missile payload.
India.com
20-05-2025
- India.com
Bad news for Pakistan, China, Bangladesh as Sukhoi 30 fighter jet to become more lethal, ‘Super 30' program to make it…, capacity will increase by…
Bad news for Pakistan, China, Bangladesh as Sukhoi 30 fighter jet to become more lethal, 'Super 30' program to make it..., capacity will increase by... Sukhoi-30 MKI Fighter Jet Upgrade: The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently carried out 'Operation Sindoor' in Pakistan. Since then, the power of the Indian Air Force has been praised all over the world. The Indian Air Force also has Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft, which is known for its power. Now Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has announced a five-year plan. Under this, a 'Super-30' program will be run and 84 Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft will be updated. What is the 'Super-30' program? Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's 'Super-30' program will start in the year 2026. Its aim is to take the power of the Indian Air Force to new heights. Under the Super-30 program, new technologies such as advanced radar, digital cockpit and indigenous weapon systems are to be fitted in Sukhoi fighter jets. This is not only good for the combat capability of these aircraft, but also shows India's self-reliance on defense technology. What updates will be there in Sukhoi-30 MKI? Virupaksha AESA Radar: The most important part of this program is the Virupaksha gallium nitride best AESA radar. This radar is able to track targets at long distances. Apart from tracking, it is equipped with jamming-resistant capabilities. This can make the Sukhoi-30 jet effective against stealth aircraft like the Chinese J-35A. Digital cockpit: The cockpit of fighter planes will be made digital and automatic. New generation touch widescreen displays will be installed. The latest mission control computer and voice-activated system will also be fitted. This will make the pilot's work easier. Indigenous weapons: Sukhoi-30 MKI will be equipped with indigenous weapons. These include Astra Mk-1 and Mk-2, Astra MkIII and Brahmos-A supersonic cruise missile. How much will the Super-30 program cost? Some reports suggest that the estimated cost of the Super-30 program could be around Rs 63,000 crore. This includes the cost of design, development and testing. According to this, updating each fighter aircraft could cost Rs 130-140 crore.
