The Indian Air Force (IAF) is in the process of upgrading its Sukhoi-30 MKI fleet. The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), the state-owned Russian corporation, told the press during Aero India 2023 that work for this was ongoing and that the UAC had just defined the technical specifications. The UAC, together with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), will take up the upgradation. The process will take place at the HAL’s facilities. Talking to the media during Aero India, UAC director general Yury B. Slyusar said that one of India’s major requirements in the upgrade programme was that they take place within the country.

When the Sukhois were initially supplied to India, they were manufactured by the Irkut Corporation. Slyusar said the corporation introduced new solutions into the aircraft while undertaking upgrades as well as new air weapons. However, the current additions into the Sukhois will be indigenous and in compliance with the IAF’s requirements. Slyusar did not divulge the engine options that the UAC would offer India in the upgrade programme.