In a major capability boost for the Indian Air Force, the Defence Ministry is taking up a proposal to modify the Su-30 MKI aircraft to integrate them with the Russian-origin RVV-BD air-to-air missile, which can engage enemy targets at 300 kilometres at high speed.
The proposal is being considered by the Defence Ministry just days before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrival for the BRICS meeting, with several important defence deals expected to be discussed between the two sides. The Su-30 MKI modification proposal is expected to be taken up for clearance at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council scheduled for today, according to defence sources.
About the Missile
Russia has several versions of the RVV-BD missile capable of hitting targets like Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft and other spy planes at hypersonic speeds of around Mach 6.
Broader Weapons Modernization Push
The Defence Ministry, led by Rajnath Singh, has been working to upgrade the Indian Air Force’s air-to-air weaponry through both indigenous and foreign channels. On the indigenous side, the Defence Research and Development Organisation has been fast-tracking work on variants of the Astra air-to-air missile, targeting a range of 300-plus kilometres. India has also placed large orders for the Meteor air-to-air missile from France.
The Su-30 MKI’s Role
The Su-30 MKI fleet, which is being modified to carry the RVV-BD missiles, forms the mainstay of the Indian Air Force with more than 260 aircraft in service. India is pursuing two separate modernization projects for the fleet that would give it improved detection and strike range. Notably, these jets played a significant role in Operation Sindoor, striking multiple Pakistani air bases using long-range air-to-ground payloads including BrahMos air-launched missiles and Rampage munitions.
The Defence Acquisition Council is also considering a project to overhaul the Su-30 MKI’s AL-31 engines at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). HAL is separately likely to receive a significant order for ALH Mark 3 helicopters.