MoD approves 33 new fighter jets for IAF in deals

The Defence Acquisition Council has approved deals worth ₹38,900 crore. This includes procurement of 21 MiG-29 fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF), upgrade of 59 of them and acquirement of 12 Su-30 MKI aircraft.

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The 21 MiG-29s had been partially manufactured by Russia for an unfulfilled order and would now be upgraded and delivered to India.

These would add to the three of their squadrons in service that were undergoing an upgrade. The 12 Su-30MKIs are meant to replace the aircraft that had crashed over the years.

India has in different batches contracted 272 Su-30s from Russia, majority of which have been licence manufactured by HAL.

The IAF currently has 30 fighter squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. It will start adding the first batch of Rafale multi-role jets this month-end.

Another deal for 83 Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A, estimated to cost ₹38,000 crore, is expected to be signed in the next two months.

The IAF has expressed satisfaction over the performance of the Astra BVR and was currently inducting the Astra Mk-I on its Sukhoi fleet.