During the course of this week, reports from India indicate that Russia has offered to equip the Indian Air Force’s modernized Su-30MKI fighters with the AL-41 engine, the same powerplant used in the Su-57 stealth fighter. If realized, this would represent a significant contract for the Russian manufacturer United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), considering that India currently operates a fleet of 272 Su-30MKI aircraft, which form the undeniable backbone of its fighter inventory.
The news stems from recent statements made by Vadim Badekha, the current CEO of UAC, who told Indian journalists last Tuesday: “We are offering the new engine as part of the Sukhoi-30 upgrade to India.”
It is worth noting that earlier in 2024, the Indian government had already authorized the licensed production of up to 240 AL-31FP engines by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to power these fighters—a model with lower capabilities than the more advanced AL-41 proposed by UAC. As a result, the new Russian proposal has gained traction in discussions surrounding the Su-30MKI modernization program, which, according to HAL’s own leadership, is expected to be contractually finalized in the coming months.
In line with this, one of the main points to be resolved in the negotiations will undoubtedly be the involvement of India’s defense industry in the manufacturing and installation of the new engines on its Su-30MKI fighters. This aligns with New Delhi’s broader policy of reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for military hardware. While no official confirmation has been issued yet, the Russian company has already expressed its willingness to cooperate with its Indian counterparts to carry out the project.
Finally, regarding the general scope of India’s planned modernization program, it is important to highlight the intention to equip the aircraft with new Uttam AESA radars to replace the original PESA models. Additionally, a fully digitalized cockpit will be installed, featuring large touchscreen displays designed to enhance pilot workload management and situational awareness. Furthermore, a more powerful mission computer will be integrated, as it is expected to be necessary for handling the planned avionics upgrades. In terms of localization, the modernization aims to incorporate up to 78% indigenous components in the upgraded aircraft.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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