HAL delivers first AL-31FP engine to Indian Air Force for Su-30MKI jets
- In Reports
- 03:10 PM, Oct 05, 2024
- Myind Staff
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully manufactured and delivered the first AL-31FP engine to the Indian Air Force for its Su-30MKI fighter jets. This delivery is part of a new contract that involves the production of a total of 240 engines. The initial engine was produced at the Sukhoi Engine Division plant in Odisha and was handed over to the Air Force, according to reports from TASS.
The contract, valued at $3.1 billion, was finalised on September 9, 2024, and outlines an eight-year timeline for full production. The Indian Ministry of Defence praised this achievement as a demonstration of HAL’s capabilities in aircraft engine production and its commitment to enhancing the Indian Air Force’s technology.
To meet the needs of the Indian Air Force, a total of 950 new engines are required for the Su-30MKI fleet. Upgrading these jets with new, Russian-licensed engines is part of a larger modernisation effort to bring them up to fifth-generation standards. This upgrade aims to extend the operational life of the aircraft to 2055 and equip them with advanced features such as new radars, avionics, integrated drone systems, and long-range weaponry, including Astra air-to-air missiles with a range of 350 km.
The production of the first licensed engine for the Su-30MKI marks a significant milestone for Indian industry and may pave the way for further deals between India and Russia. Reports indicate that the two nations are negotiating an increase in the licensed production of Su-30MKI fighters by an additional 50 units. This negotiation is part of the ongoing military partnership between Russia and India.
In September 2023, India approved the acquisition of 12 new Su-30MKI fighters, which will also be produced under license at HAL. These jets will be equipped with Indian-made avionics and weapon systems, and the deal, worth approximately $1.33 billion, reflects the continuous collaboration between the two countries, even amid international sanctions on Russia.
Discussions are also underway about jointly producing 50 new Su-30 aircraft for both India and potential export markets. Russia is providing technical kits for licensed assembly in India to modernise and expand existing projects. Additionally, there are plans to upgrade India’s Su-30MKI to Russia’s Su-30SM2 standard, enhancing their performance and combat capabilities.
The Su-30MKI, a two-seat, multi-role fighter jet designed by Russia for the Indian Air Force, measures 21.9 meters in length, has a wingspan of 14.7 meters, and stands 6.4 meters tall. It weighs around 18,400 kg when empty, with a maximum take-off weight of 38,800 kg. The aircraft is powered by two AL-31FP variable thrust vectoring turbojets, each generating 122.58 kN of thrust, which gives it excellent manoeuvrability.
Equipped with a digital flight control system, the Su-30MKI offers precise control, especially during high-speed manoeuvres. It features modern avionics, including a voice command system and multifunction displays for real-time situational awareness. The aircraft has advanced electronic countermeasures and radar systems, such as the H011 “Bars” multi-purpose phased array radar, capable of tracking up to 15 targets simultaneously and engaging up to 4 of them.
The fighter jet is armed with various missile systems, including air-to-air P-77 and P-73 missiles, air-to-ground X-29 missiles, laser-guided bombs, and anti-ship missiles. It also carries a 30-mm GSh-30-1 gun for close air combat, capable of firing 150 rounds. With an operational range of approximately 3,000 km without aerial refuelling, the Su-30MKI is well-suited for long-range missions. If refuelled in flight, this range can extend significantly, making it ideal for sustained operations in regional conflicts or protecting strategic air territories. The aircraft can carry a maximum armament load of up to 8,000 kg on 12 external suspension points, allowing it to perform a variety of missions, from air-to-air engagements to ground strikes.
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