Why in news
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing for a comprehensive upgrade of its fleet of Su-30MKI jets.
Financial planning for this upgrade is currently underway, pending government approval.
The upgrade process could take five to seven years to complete, involving certification and testing.
The IAF is working with the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, on AI-based maintenance solutions and inventory optimization.
Sukhoi fighter jet
The Sukhoi Su-30 is a twin-engine, two-seat supermaneuverable fighter aircraft developed by Russia's Sukhoi Aviation Corporation.
It is a multirole fighter for all-weather, air-to-air and air interdiction missions
Su-30MKI is built under license by India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
SU-30MKI, a variant of the Sukhoi Su-30, is a heavy, all-weather, long-range fighter.
The Su-30MKI is a highly integrated twin-finned aircraft.
The airframe is constructed of titanium and high-strength Aluminium alloy
The Su-30MKI has a range of 3,000 km with internal fuel which ensures a 3.75 hour combat mission.
The air refueling system increases the flight duration up to 10 hours with a range of 3,000 km combat radius.
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