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Su-30MKI Fighter Jet

Su-30MKI Fighter Jet

Manufacturer: Sukhoi
Category: Fighter Jets
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Generation 4+
Maximum Speed Mach 2
No. of Engines 2
Radar Range Up to 150 km

Full Specifications

General Information

Name	Su 30MKI
Manufacturer	Sukhoi, HAL
Country of Origin	Russia, India
Type / Role	Multirole Fighter
Generation	Fourth Generation Plus
Status	In Service
First Flight	1997
Introduction / In Service Since	2002
Number Built	270 plus
Operators	India

Dimensions & Structure

Length	21.9 m
Wingspan	14.7 m
Height	6.4 m
Wing Area	62 sqm
Empty Weight	18,400 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	38,800 kg
Internal Weapons Bay	None
External Hardpoints	12

Performance

Maximum Speed	Mach 2
Range	3,000 km
Combat Radius	1,500 km
Service Ceiling	17,300 m
Rate of Climb	300 m per sec
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio	1.1
G Limits	plus minus 9 G

Powerplant

Engine Type	AL 31FP Turbofan
No. of Engines	2
Thrust (each)	27,500 lbf
Thrust Vectoring	Yes
Fuel Capacity	9,400 kg

Armament

Gun	30 mm GSh 30 1
Missiles (Air-to-Air)	R 77, R 73
Missiles (Air-to-Ground)	Kh 29, Kh
Bombs	Guided and unguided
Hardpoints	12
Payload Capacity	8,000 kg

Avionics & Systems

Radar	N011M Bars
Radar Range	Up to 150 km
Electronic Warfare (EW) System	Integrated EW suite
Targeting System	Laser targeting pod
Helmet Display	Helmet mounted sight
Navigation	INS GPS
Autopilot / AI Assistance	Digital fly by wire
Communication	Secure data link

Stealth & Technology

Radar Cross Section (RCS)	Medium
Stealth Features	Limited
Infrared Signature Reduction	Partial
Sensor Fusion	Limited
Networking Capabilities	Yes

Variants

Special Export Versions

Su 30MKI, Su 30MKM, Su 30MKA, Su 30SM

Operational History

Major Conflicts / Deployments	Border patrols, exercises
Notable Operators	India
Combat Proven?	Limited
Mission Types	Air defense, strike, escort

Cost & Program

Unit Cost	60 to 70 million USD
Development Cost	Not disclosed
Program Name	Su 30 Program
Funding Countries	Russia, India

Additional Information

Upgrades Planned	AESA radar, new EW
Future Replacement	AMCA
Export Restrictions	Moderate
Notable Achievements	Super maneuverability
Competitors	F 15, Rafale

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.4

Technology 7 / 10
Performance 7 / 10
Firepower 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 7 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Excellent maneuverability with thrust vectoring
Long combat range and endurance
Heavy and diverse weapons payload
Proven multirole flexibility
Strong upgrade potential

CONS

Large radar signature compared to stealth jets
High maintenance demands
Older radar technology in baseline versions
Limited stealth features
Higher operating cost than light fighters

Su-30MKI Multirole Fighter Jet

The Su 30MKI fighter jet stands as one of the most capable non stealth multirole combat aircraft in service today. Designed for long range missions and high intensity air combat, the aircraft blends Russian airframe design with international avionics to deliver strong performance across air to air and air to ground roles.

Design and Origin

The Su 30MKI is manufactured by Sukhoi with licensed production by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. It originated as a customized variant of the Su 27 family, tailored to meet Indian Air Force requirements. The aircraft serves as a frontline heavy fighter focused on air superiority, deep strike, maritime attack, and escort missions.

Performance and Capabilities

Powered by two AL 31FP turbofan engines with thrust vectoring, the Su 30MKI offers exceptional maneuverability, including high angle of attack flight. It can reach speeds of Mach 2 and operate at long ranges supported by aerial refueling. The aircraft carries a wide mix of air to air missiles, precision guided munitions, and anti ship weapons across multiple hardpoints.

Avionics and Systems

The fighter features a hybrid avionics suite combining Russian, Israeli, French, and Indian systems. Its radar supports long range target detection and multi target tracking. A helmet mounted sight, electronic warfare suite, and advanced navigation systems enhance survivability and combat awareness.

Operational Use

The Su 30MKI has been widely used in air patrols, joint exercises, and deterrence missions. Its flexibility and payload capacity make it suitable for both defensive and offensive operations, particularly in large airspace environments.

Su 30MKI Multirole Fighter Jet Price

The estimated unit cost of the Su 30MKI ranges between 60 and 70 million US dollars, depending on configuration, support packages, and local production factors.

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