Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is set to restart production of Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets at its Nashik facility, according to a report by The Economic Times. The move will mark the return of licensed production of the Russian-origin fighter aircraft at the facility. HAL plans to manufacture and deliver 12 new Su-30MKIs by 2029. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered in 2027-28.

HAL had earlier manufactured 222 Su-30MKIs under a licence from Russia for the Indian Air Force (IAF). In December 2024, the company received an order to build 12 more aircraft. The new jets will replace Su-30MKIs that the IAF has lost in accidents. The contract is worth around ₹11,000 crore and requires the aircraft to have more than 50% indigenous content, according to the report.

The Nashik facility has a long history of producing Russian-origin fighter aircraft. It is also involved in the manufacturing of India’s indigenous light combat aircraft. With the planned Su-30MKI production, the facility is expected to take on a larger role in strengthening the IAF’s fighter fleet.

The Nashik unit is also expected to contribute to a major upgrade programme for the existing Su-30MKI fleet. The proposed upgrade could cost around ₹60,000 crore. The programme may be carried out with support from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Several key components are also likely to come from Indian private sector companies, according to the report.

The upgrade programme is expected to take place in two phases. The first phase will focus on improving the aircraft’s avionics and radar systems. The second phase will focus on upgrading the flight control systems. The proposed changes are aimed at improving the Su-30MKI’s overall combat capabilities and extending its operational effectiveness.

A major part of the upgrade could be the introduction of a new indigenous radar. The radar is expected to detect and engage targets from much greater distances. The radar systems fitted on older Su-30MKI aircraft have been a concern for the IAF, making improved detection and targeting capabilities an important part of the planned modernisation.

The first phase of the upgrade is also expected to add a new electronic warfare system. The system will help the aircraft jam incoming threats and improve its ability to operate in hostile environments. The aircraft may also receive infrared search-and-track systems. These systems will improve its ability to detect and track targets, adding another layer to its combat capabilities.

The planned production and upgrade programmes come at a time when India is focusing on increasing the indigenous content of its military platforms. The new Su-30MKIs will have more than 50% indigenous content under the existing contract. The upgrade programme could also provide opportunities for Indian companies to supply important systems and components.

The restart of Su-30MKI production at Nashik will therefore serve two purposes. HAL will build 12 additional aircraft to replenish the IAF’s fleet while also supporting the modernisation of existing fighters. With new radars, avionics, electronic warfare systems and other upgrades planned, the programme could significantly improve the capabilities of the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet.