In a significant push toward self-reliance in defense production, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a ₹13,500-crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 additional Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Boost to Indigenous Production

The new Sukhoi-30 MKI jets, which will be manufactured at HAL’s Nashik division, will feature 62.6% indigenous content. This marks a substantial increase in indigenization, driven by the local defense industry's contribution to component manufacturing.

"The supply of these aircraft will enhance the operational capability of the IAF and strengthen the country’s defense preparedness," the MoD stated. The deal underscores India’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign defense imports and boosting its domestic manufacturing capacity.

Strengthening IAF’s Fleet

The IAF currently operates 260 Sukhoi-30 MKI jets, making it a critical component of its combat fleet. However, the IAF is grappling with a declining number of squadrons. At present, it operates 31 squadrons, well below the 42 squadrons recommended by the Cabinet Committee on Security to address potential threats from China and Pakistan.

Each squadron comprises 16-18 jets, and the new Sukhois will help bridge the gap as older fleets, such as the MiG-21, MiG-29, and Jaguars, are phased out in the coming years. The first two squadrons of the Soviet-era MiG-21 jets are set to retire within the next year.

Advancing Indigenous Defense Projects

The deal aligns with India’s broader goal of producing approximately 500 fighter jets domestically over the next two decades. This includes 180 Tejas Mark 1A jets, 108 Tejas Mark 2 jets, and 126 Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The IAF is also awaiting the delivery of 83 Tejas Mark-1A jets from HAL, which were scheduled to begin earlier this year but have faced delays.

Upgrades and Artillery Modernization

The Su-30 jets are set to receive significant upgrades in the future, with plans for a ₹65,000-crore modernization program. The upgrades will include the integration of indigenous Uttam active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, advanced electronic warfare suites, weapon control systems, and new weaponry.

In addition to the Sukhoi deal, the government has cleared a ₹7,000-crore contract for 100 more K9 Vajra-T self-propelled guns, manufactured by Larsen & Toubro in collaboration with South Korean firm Hanwha Techwin.

Aiming for Self-Reliance

The latest developments reflect India’s efforts to bolster its defense capabilities while emphasizing indigenization. The defense ministry also recently signed a ₹26,000-crore deal for 240 aero-engines for the Su-30 fleet, to be manufactured at HAL’s Koraput facility with technology transfer from Russia.

By the end of production, these engines are expected to achieve 63% indigenous content. With these initiatives, the MoD aims to enhance the IAF’s operational readiness while fostering domestic manufacturing capabilities, paving the way for a stronger, self-reliant defense ecosystem.