Indian Air Force to retire nearly 100 older Su-30 variants by 2045, replacing them with AMCA Mk2
In a recent discussion with News9 Plus, former Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria revealed a comprehensive vision for the Indian Air Force (IAF) over the next two decades. A major element of this plan is the phased retirement of the older Su-30MKI fighter jets, which were inducted in 2001, and their replacement with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Mk2, India’s indigenous 5.5 generation stealth fighter.
According to sources from the Defence Ministry and the Air Force, the IAF will begin decommissioning around 100 Su-30MKIs starting from 2045. The focus will be on phasing out the early models inducted in the 2000s. By this time, the AMCA Mk2 production will be in full operation, with 4-5 squadrons of the stealth fighters expected to be active.
For two decades, the Su-30MKI has been the IAF’s mainstay, providing versatility and a broad range of capabilities. However, Bhadauria stressed that advancements in technology and the IAF’s modernization goals require replacing these older platforms. The shift to advanced stealth fighters like the AMCA Mk2 signifies the IAF’s next phase in modernization.
The AMCA Mk2, which is being developed by India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), represents the future of the IAF. As a 5.5-generation stealth aircraft, it will offer enhanced features in stealth, avionics, and sensor fusion. Its multi-role capabilities, including air superiority, deep strikes, and network-centric warfare, will allow it to take over the roles of the Su-30MKI while providing far greater operational advantages.
Although the older Su-30MKIs will be phased out by 2045, reports suggest that the IAF intends to keep some Su-30MKI variants operational until at least 2060. These later versions, inducted in the 2020s, are still relatively new and will likely undergo upgrades to maintain their effectiveness in future combat scenarios.
The IAF’s Super Sukhoi upgrade initiative is part of this plan. It aims to enhance the capabilities of the Su-30MKI fleet by integrating advanced radars, avionics, electronic warfare systems, and upgraded weapon systems. This program will ensure that newer Su-30MKIs remain a formidable force for several more decades.
The retirement of the older Su-30MKIs around 2045 will coincide with the ramping up of AMCA Mk2 production, allowing for a seamless transition in the IAF’s air combat capabilities. Bhadauria’s vision underscores the IAF's commitment to staying at the forefront of air superiority well into the future.
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