AI big focus of SU-30MKI upgrade; IAF taking up pilot projects with IIT-Mumbai, says officer

News: Financial aspects of the upgrade to the first batch of 84 SU-30 MKIs are being considered. The comprehensive upgrade would start once the government approves the proposal.

1. Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a two-seater, twinjet multirole combat fighter aircraft.

2. It has been developed by Sukhoi (Russian aircraft manufacturer) and built under license by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

3. It is a fourth-generation fighter jet which is powered by two AL-31 FP aero engines. AL-31 FP is a high temperature turbojet bypass engine of modular design.

4. It has a maximum unrefueled flight range of 3,000 km. While the in-flight refueling system provides a maximum range of 8,000 km with two refueling.

5. The first batch of 84 SU-30MKIs will undergo upgrade of 51 systems with an indigenous content of 78%.

6. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also planning to utilise automation and artificial intelligence for the maintenance and overhaul of its diverse fleet and inventory management.