The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a contract to state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture 12 Su-30MKI fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. Valued at 135 billion rupees ($1.5 billion), the deal aims to replenish losses within the fleet. While the sanctioned strength of the Su-30 fleet stands at 272 aircraft, only 259 are currently operational. The addition of these new jets is expected to boost the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities and reinforce the country’s overall defense readiness.
