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India

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is charting a bold course for the future of its primary fighter, the Su-30MKI. With a view to ensuring operational relevance well into the mid-2050s, the IAF is embarking on a comprehensive integration and upgrade program, driven by a substantial increase in domestic capabilities.

Central to the IAF's ambitious plan is the aim to achieve a remarkable 78% indigenization rate for the Su-30MKI. This transformation seeks to significantly reduce reliance on Russian origins, transitioning the aircraft into a predominantly Indian-built and maintained platform.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is spearheading efforts to extend the service life of the Su-30MKI. Currently designed for approximately 6,000 flying hours (equivalent to 30-40 years), the goal is to add an extra 1,500 hours, potentially granting each aircraft an additional 10-15 years of operational service.

Critical to this endeavor is the collaboration with the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) to develop indigenous upgrades for the Su-30MKI's AL-31F engines. With HAL already manufacturing 87.7% of engine components domestically, upgrading within India not only extends engine life but also offers opportunities for performance enhancements.

Reflecting its confidence in the Su-30MKI, the IAF has continued procurement, with HAL authorized to produce an additional 12 aircraft to replace losses due to accidents since 2001.

The path towards self-reliance entails a wide array of indigenous upgrades, ranging from avionics and AESA radar to mission computers and IRST systems. These upgrades aim to replace key Russian sensors with Indian-built equivalents, reducing dependency on external support.

The robust build quality of the Su-30MKI opens avenues for life extension even without direct Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) support.

The IAF's vision for its Su-30MKI fleet underscores a strategic shift towards greater self-reliance in defense capability. This transition not only enhances fleet maintenance and longevity but also fosters the growth of India's aerospace industry.

In conclusion, the Indian Air Force's plans for the Su-30MKI represent a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in defense technology. By leveraging domestic capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, India aims to secure its defense needs well into the future.