New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has sanctioned the procurement of 240 aero-engines for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Su-30MKI aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The acquisition for over Rs 26,000 crore is intended to bolster the operational readiness of one of the IAF’s most strategically critical fighter fleets.
54% indigenous content
The engines of the AL-31FP model will be manufactured under the ‘Buy Indian’ category, with more than 54% indigenous content due to the localisation of several key components. Production will take place at HAL’s Koraput division, with deliveries scheduled to begin within a year.
“The delivery of these aero-engines would start after one year and complete over a period of eight years,” Union defence ministry said in a statement.
Su-30MKI remains cornerstone of India’s aerial combat
The Su-30MKI remains a cornerstone of India’s aerial combat capabilities. The supply of these engines is crucial for maintaining the operational efficiency of the aircraft, ensuring the IAF can continue its operations without disruption.
“Su-30 MKI is one of the most powerful and strategically significant fleets of IAF. The supply of these aero-engines by HAL would meet the fleet sustenance requirement of IAF to continue their unhindered operations and strengthen the defence preparedness of the country,” the statement read further.
