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Sukhoi Su-30MKI Fighter Jet

Source: The Hindu
GS III: Internal Security


Overview

  1. News in Brief
  2. About Sukhoi Su-30MKI Fighter Jet

Why in the News?

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared proposals worth Rs 45,000 crore to acquire 12 Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft and indigenous Dhruvastra short-range air-to-surface missiles for the Indian Air Force among nine platforms and weapon systems for the armed forces.

News in Brief


  • Clearing a long pending deal, the Defence Acquisition Council which met on Friday approved procurement of 12 SU-30MKI jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
  • These will be licensed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and cost under ₹11,000 crore.
  • These will replace aircraft that have been lost over the years.
  • The IAF has been pushing for additional Sukhois as well 21 Mig-29s to arrest its falling fighter strength before newer inductions come in.
  • The DAC cleared Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for nine capital acquisition proposals of the armed forces worth ₹45,000 crore.

 

What is Acceptance of Necessity (AoN)?

  • AoN is the first step in the long defense procurement process.
  • Grant of an AoN does not necessarily lead to a final order.

 

About Sukhoi Su-30MKI Fighter Jet


  • Origin: The Su-30MKI is a variant of the Russian Sukhoi Su-30 family of fighter aircraft. It was developed specifically for India and is based on the Su-30 platform.
  • Manufacturer: The Su-30MKI is manufactured by Russia’s Sukhoi Corporation and is licensed for production in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
  • Role: It is a multi-role fighter designed for air superiority, ground attack, and long-range interception missions. It can carry a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
  • Specifications:
    • Crew: 2 (pilot and co-pilot/weapons system operator)
    • Length: Approximately 21 meters
    • Wingspan: Approximately 14.7 meters
    • Max Takeoff Weight: Around 38,800 kg
    • Speed: Supersonic, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 2
    • Range: Approximately 3,000 kilometers (with external fuel tanks)
    • Service Ceiling: Around 17,300 meters
  • Avionics: The Su-30MKI is equipped with advanced avionics and radar systems, including a powerful radar for air-to-air and air-to-ground targeting. It has a modern glass cockpit with multi-function displays.
  • Armament: It can carry a variety of missiles, bombs, and rockets, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, air-to-air missiles like the R-77 and R-73, and precision-guided munitions for ground attack missions.
  • Maneuverability: The Su-30MKI is known for its exceptional maneuverability, which includes the ability to perform the Pugachev’s Cobra and the Herbst maneuver.
  • Variants: The Su-30MKI is a specific variant customized for the Indian Air Force. Other countries operate their own versions of the Su-30 family.
  • Operational Status: The Su-30MKI is one of the primary fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force’s inventory and has been in service since the early 2000s.
  • Upgrades: Over the years, the Indian Air Force has undertaken several upgrade programs to enhance the capabilities of the Su-30MKI, including avionics and weapons systems upgrades.
  • Significance: The Su-30MKI is a critical component of India’s air defense and strike capabilities, and it plays a vital role in ensuring national security.

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