Super Sukhoi programme: Modernising IAF's work horse fighter fleet

As the Indian Air Force undergoes a major transformation—replacing older types with Rafale, Tejas Mk‑1A and, soon, Tejas Mk‑2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)—the Sukhoi‑30MKI will continue to bridge the transition.

First inducted in the early 2000s, the aircraft is now slated for a comprehensive refresh.

Estimated at around Rs 63,000 crore, the Super Sukhoi programme will cover roughly 180 of the IAF’s 260 aircraft, making it one of the largest fighter modernisation efforts in the world.


The upgrade package focuses on avionics, sensors and mission systems. At its core is the indigenous Virupaksha AESA radar, which offers extended detection ranges, improved resistance to electronic attack and simultaneous multi‑target tracking.

Complementary systems include advanced electronic‑warfare suites, AI‑enabled mission computers, and sensor‑fusion frameworks that combine radar, infrared and electronic‑intelligence inputs into a unified tactical picture—an approach increasingly seen as essential for fifth‑generation performance.

Navigation and datalinks receive major attention. Multi‑constellation navigation antennas compatible with NaVIC, GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and GAGAN are being procured; the RFP for this element was recently issued. These antennas are specified to operate at altitudes up to 21 km, speeds up to Mach 1.5, and sustained accelerations between –2g and +9g—supporting precision strike profiles and robust network‑centric operations.

On the weapons side, the Super Sukhoi will be cleared to employ next‑generation air‑to‑air and air‑to‑surface munitions, including long‑range standoff weapons and indigenous systems such as the Astra family. Structural reinforcements will permit heavier payloads where required. Maintenance and availability are set to improve through digital‑twin technologies and predictive servicing, which will streamline logistics and increase sortie rates.