First Phase Contract Of Su-30MKI Upgrade In 90 Days

The first phase of Su-30MKI twin-engine fighter jet upgrade contract between India and Russia is likely to be confirmed by 90 days.

“The Su-30MKI upgrade program related contract will be concluded in 90 days,” HAL Chairman T.Suvarna Raju said in a press conference on the second day of Aero India Air show Wednesday.  It will be done in two phases. Phase one will be concluded in 90 days. He did not specify the details of the upgrade.

The contract is likely to include a new engine AL-41FP and radar upgrade for the aircraft.

Russian United Engine Corporation however says the contract is in the draft stage and will be ready to sign the contract as soon as the copy is formulated. It is too early to say about the timeline as it is in the starting phase of the negotiations.

The company says it wants to enhance the volume of engine deliveries to India, reinforce customer support and explore participation in engine projects for future Indian aircraft.

Large-scale cooperation between UEC and India is currently focused on engines for military aviation. The biggest project is the ongoing delivery of AL-31FP engine kits for licensed production in India under the Su-30MKI fighter program. UEC is also seeking to promote its civil engine programs.