Government Pushes For Super Sukhoi Upgrade Amid IAF’s Shrinking Fighter Jet Fleet: Report

After the retirement of the last MiG-21s, the Indian Air Force’s fighter strength has dropped to 29 squadrons, far below the sanctioned 42.

In response, the government is expediting plans to modernise the Su-30MKI fleet — the core of India’s air combat capability, Indian Express reported, citing officials.

Also known as the “Super Sukhoi” programme, the midlife Russian-origin jet upgrade aims to extend the operational life of the Su-30MKI by up to two decades, ensuring its continued dominance in multirole missions.

Officials cited in the IE report said the Ministry of Defence is reviewing the proposal and work is ongoing to accelerate its clearance by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final approval.

A senior official said that nearly 80 aircraft are slated for the upgrade.

The Super Sukhoi package will feature a new cockpit, upgraded avionics, radar and infrared sensors, and a next-generation electronic warfare suite with jammer pods.

Once approved, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) reportedly plans to deliver the upgraded aircraft’s Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) variant within five years, followed by the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) version in seven years.

The IOC model will include core systems required for preliminary deployment, while the FOC variant will be fully combat-ready, equipped with integrated weapons and advanced mission systems.

The urgency stems from the IAF’s declining squadron strength — now 29 after the MiG-21’s retirement — against an authorised strength of 42 squadrons needed for full operational preparedness.

Adding to the pressure, the IAF has yet to receive any of the 83 Tejas Mk1A jets ordered from HAL, widening the capability gap.

In November 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for indigenous upgradation of the Su-30MKI fleet by HAL.

With ongoing border duties along Pakistan and China, the IAF’s reduced strength poses a serious operational concern.

The Jaguar and Mirage 2000 fleets are slated for phased retirement after 2030, while delays in Tejas Mk1A deliveries leave critical gaps unfilled.

In December 2024, the DAC approved procurement of a new Electronic Warfare Suite (EWS) — Airborne Self Protection Jammer pods, Next Generation Radar Warning Receiver and associated equipment for the Su-30MKI — to enhance Su-30MKI’s capability.

According to the Defence Ministry, the EWS will significantly improve the Su-30MKI’s ability to evade enemy radars and counter air defence threats during strike missions.

Additionally, DAC approval for engine overhauls last year will extend the service life of existing Su-30MKIs.

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