India advances fighter jet programs with Su-30MKI and Rafale deals

India is advancing its domestic defense manufacturing and fighter jet procurement through two major programs. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has resumed production of the Su-30MKI fighter at its Nashik plant. Under a long-standing license agreement with Russia, HAL aims to deliver 12 new aircraft by 2029, with the first units expected in the next fiscal year. This new series will feature nearly 50 percent locally sourced components to enhance national autonomy, though local manufacturing inefficiencies have reportedly made these jets nearly twice as expensive as the Russian Su-30SM.

Simultaneously, France’s Dassault Aviation is seeing significant momentum with its Rafale fighter jet. The Indian government has approved the purchase of 114 Rafale aircraft for its air force, adding to previous orders for the navy. This potential deal follows a period of strong export growth for the Rafale, which has reached a cumulative order total of 533 units. Technological advancements also continue for the platform, including the recent successful test of the new generation Mica N air-to-air missile.