HAL Revives Su-30MKI Production at Nashik

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has revived the Su-30MKI production line at its Nashik facility in Maharashtra. The plan covers 12 new Su-30MKI fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force, with deliveries scheduled up to 2029 and the first aircraft expected in 2027–2028.

Su-30MKI in Indian Defence Aviation

The Su-30MKI is a twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft used by the Indian Air Force. The aircraft was developed under a licence-production arrangement with Russia, and HAL has assembled the type in India for operational service.

Nashik Production Facility

HAL’s Nashik division previously manufactured 222 Su-30MKI aircraft under licence from Russia. The production line was later paused while the facility focused on aircraft repair work and Light Combat Aircraft production.

Contract, Indigenisation and Upgrade Plan

The agreement for 12 new aircraft was signed in December 2024 for replacement of Su-30MKI aircraft lost in accidents. The contract value has been cited in different reports as ₹11,000 crore and ₹13,500 crore, and the new aircraft are expected to carry 50% to 62.6% indigenous content.

A separate ₹60,000-crore modernisation plan is being prepared for the existing Su-30MKI fleet. The upgrade programme is planned in two phases, with the first phase covering new avionics, an indigenous radar and electronic warfare systems, and the second phase covering advanced flight control systems.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Su-30MKI is a frontline fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force and belongs to the Sukhoi Su-30 family.
• HAL’s Nashik facility is one of India’s major military aircraft production centres.
• Light Combat Aircraft production has also been associated with HAL’s Nashik division.
• Defence Research and Development Organisation is involved in the planned Su-30MKI upgrade programme.

Licence Production and Indigenous Content

Licence production in the defence sector allows an Indian manufacturer to build an aircraft using foreign-origin design and technology under an agreement. Indigenous content in defence manufacturing refers to the share of components, systems or sub-assemblies produced within India.