The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated plans to upgrade a significant number of its Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft with assistance from Russia, according to reports from media sources. This development emerges as India looks into procuring a fifth-generation stealth fighter, with the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 allegedly being the leading candidate for this acquisition. The proposed upgrade is part of a broader military enhancement strategy amidst evolving defense needs in the region.

The anticipated upgrades fall under the Super Sukhoi program, which is currently pending approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The program specifically aims to enhance 84 of the Su-30MKI jets in the IAF fleet. However, there exists a larger inventory of around 175 aircraft that have not yet been included in the upgrade plan, prompting the IAF to explore additional options for modernizing the remaining fleet.

Furthermore, a high-ranking Russian delegation recently visited Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Indian firm manufacturing Sukhoi jets under a license agreement with Russia. This partnership not only reflects India's commitment to modernizing its air force capabilities but also aims to expedite the upgrade process, countering the delays typically associated with domestic upgrades. The collaboration underscores the ongoing strategic military relationship between India and Russia, particularly in the defense sector.