Cabinet Committee Approves Rs 26,000 Crore Deal for IAF’s Su-30 MKI Aero-Engines

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On September 2, 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Security gave the green light for a significant procurement proposal, approving the purchase of 240 AL-31FP aero-engines for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Su-30 MKI aircraft. This acquisition, under the "Buy (Indian)" category, will be facilitated by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at an estimated cost exceeding Rs 26,000 crore, inclusive of all taxes and duties.

Decision Making Authority: Cabinet Committee On Security(CCS)
Discussion Topics: All matters of India's national security
Composition:
Prime Minister of India - Shri Narendra Modi
Minister of Defence - Shri. Rajnath Singh
Minister of Home Affairs - Shri. Amit Shah
Minister of Finance - Srimati. Nirmala Sitharaman
Minister of External Affairs - Shri. Jaishankar
Other Attendees:
National Security Adviser - Shri. Ajit Doval
Cabinet Secretary - Shri. T. V. Somanathan IAS
Defence Secretary - Shri. Rajesh Kumar Sinha

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Delivery Timeline and Indigenous Content

The delivery of these aero-engines is set to commence after one year from the approval date, with the entire supply expected to be completed over the span of eight years. Notably, the engines will have an indigenous content exceeding 54%, a figure bolstered by the indigenization of several key components within the engines. The manufacturing of these aero-engines will take place at HAL’s Koraput division, a testament to India's growing self-reliance in defense production.

Strategic Importance of Su-30 MKI Fleet

The Su-30 MKI is one of the most powerful and strategically significant aircraft in the IAF’s fleet. Renowned for its versatility and combat capabilities, the Su-30 MKI plays a crucial role in India's air defense strategy. The procurement of these aero-engines is essential to sustain the operational readiness of this vital fleet. HAL’s supply will ensure that the IAF’s Su-30 MKI aircraft continue to operate seamlessly, thereby enhancing the country’s defense preparedness and maintaining a robust aerial defense capability.

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Strengthening National Defence

This procurement aligns with India's broader objectives of strengthening its defense infrastructure and promoting indigenous manufacturing. By ensuring that the Su-30 MKI fleet remains fully operational, the IAF can continue to project power and defend national interests in an increasingly complex security environment.

The approval of this deal is not just a step towards maintaining the operational capabilities of the IAF but also a significant move towards bolstering the nation’s self-reliance in defense production. As the engines start rolling off the production line at HAL, they will represent a crucial element in India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its defense forces and enhance its strategic autonomy.

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