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In a significant move to bolster India’s defence capabilities and drive self-reliance in the sector, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a ₹13,500-crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 Sukhoi-30 (Su-30) fighter aircraft. The deal, finalized on Thursday, includes not only the aircraft but also associated equipment for the Indian Air Force (IAF), further advancing the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on foreign military imports.
The 12 additional Su-30 fighters will be used to replenish aircraft lost in accidents, enhancing the IAF’s operational readiness. With this agreement, HAL will manufacture the jets at its Nashik division, continuing its long history of aircraft production since the division was established in 1964. The deal aims to support the IAF’s growing needs and improve the nation’s overall defence preparedness.
Indigenisation Push
A key aspect of the deal is the high level of indigenisation of the Su-30 aircraft. The fighters will have an indigenous content of 62.6%, reflecting the success of India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The local defence industry will manufacture many of the aircraft’s components, underscoring the government’s commitment to reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and strengthening domestic defence capabilities.
In addition to the Su-30 fighter aircraft, the defence ministry also approved a ₹7,000-crore deal for 100 K9 Vajra-T self-propelled guns, which will be manufactured by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) under a technology transfer agreement with South Korean firm Hanwha Techwin. These guns are expected to improve the army’s artillery capabilities, particularly in challenging terrains such as those found in Ladakh.
Aerospace and Artillery Modernisation
Earlier this year, the ministry signed a ₹26,000-crore contract with HAL for the supply of 240 aero-engines to support the Su-30 fleet. These engines will be produced at HAL’s Koraput facility in Odisha and are expected to have up to 63% indigenised content upon completion. This deal further strengthens the operational sustainability of the Su-30 fleet.
The government’s focus on indigenisation extends beyond aircraft manufacturing. The Indian Army is also undergoing an artillery modernisation, with the K9 Vajra-T guns being part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing the army’s firepower, mobility, and precision. With an emphasis on acquiring advanced artillery systems, missiles, rockets, and improved surveillance systems, the army aims to achieve battlefield supremacy.
Upgrades to Existing Su-30 Fleet
In a related development, HAL will also undertake the upgrade of the existing Su-30 fleet under a ₹65,000 crore project. The upgrades will include the installation of the indigenous Uttam active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, electronic warfare systems, new weapon control systems, and advanced avionics. The project will also enhance the fighter jets’ weapons systems, ensuring they remain combat-ready for years to come.
Strengthening India’s Defence Arsenal
These new deals and initiatives reflect India’s ongoing efforts to modernise and strengthen its armed forces. With the focus on indigenisation, advanced technologies, and strategic partnerships, India is positioning itself as a self-sufficient global power in defence manufacturing. The latest agreements highlight the country’s ambition to develop and maintain a world-class military arsenal, with an emphasis on both innovation and reliability.
The defence ministry’s recent actions, coupled with initiatives such as the K9 Vajra-T artillery modernisation, underline India’s commitment to securing its national borders and increasing its operational capabilities through self-reliance in defence technology. With this new acquisition of Su-30 fighter aircraft, India continues to advance towards its goal of becoming a major player in the global defence industry.
Sources By Agencies
