In a significant step towards the government’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, the Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 Su-30MKI aircraft and associated equipment at an approximate cost of Rs 13,500 crore, inclusive of taxes and duties.
The aircraft will feature 62.6% indigenous content, achieved through the indigenization of various components by the Indian defence industry. The jets will be manufactured at HAL’s Nasik division, further boosting domestic defence production.
“The supply of these aircraft will enhance the operational capability of the Indian Air Force and strengthen the country’s defence preparedness,” the ministry stated.
The Su-30MKI, a two-seater, multi-role long-range fighter jet, was originally developed by Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi and is now built under licence by HAL for the Indian Air Force.
