Sukhoi Su-30 modified 100 times in India, Brahmos integration was cutting-edge: HAL CEO

Nagpur: The Russian Sukhoi Su-30 fighter aircraft was modified 100 times at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the supersonic missile, BrahMos, is one of the successful additions to the aircraft, said HAL's chief executive officer (CEO), Saket Chaturvedi on Monday. The CEO's reference was to a recent addition that enables firing BrahMos from Su-30 aircraft.HAL has been manufacturing the aircraft on transfer of technology (TOT) with Russia. Chaturvedi stressed that HAL has gone a long way, making 100 modifications to the aircraft and this was possible because India had secured the TOT. He was speaking at a book launch at National Academy of Defence Production (NADP) — a training wing under Munitions India Ltd.Later, talking to TOI on the sidelines of the function, Chaturvedi said the modifications helped in enhancing its capability. The Su-30 is being made directly through raw material, and HAL is also tying up with other PSUs like Nagpur-based Yantra India Limited (YIL) and Mishra Dhatu Nigam in Hyderabad for sourcing the material. YIL is a PSU formed out of erstwhile ordnance facilities and is primarily engaged in making empty ammunition shells.Chaturvedi said there are plans to completely indigenise the avionics systems of the Su-30 too. This is expected to happen in 4 to 5 years, after which nearly 75% of the fighter plane would be indigenised, he said.Avionics are electronic equipment fitted in the aircraft, like the weather radar, flight management system, or GPS, which assist in flying, explained a source. Chaturvedi said the MiG-21 phase-out will be done at a grand function on September 26. "MiG-29s would continue to be operational," he said.The book authored by two HAL officers and launched by Chaturvedi also mentions issues faced by HAL on Russian avionics. It says the licensor still holds a few secret cards by supplying critical avionic articles like mission computers, laser systems, optical displays, navigation systems as ready-made articles of Russian origin. The electrical interface and technical knowhow of the equipment is not disclosed. And this is important for technology absorption and upgradation.