Three-phase upgradation by 2004

It will be only by 2004 that the Su-30 MKI will achieve full potential of a complete air dominance fighter armed with 10 tonnes of weapons and capability to strike four targets simultaneously. 8216;8216;We are increasing the capabilities of Su-30 MKIs, in a phased manner,8217;8217; Alexey I. Fedorov, president of Irkutsk aviation designers of the Su-30 MKI said in Pune today. The aircraft is also being upgraded in three phases.

The first stage is complete and 10 aircraft have been delivered to the IAF. 8216;8216;These aircraft are armed with air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles and bombs. In the second phase, advanced avionics and software will be added. The radars will be able to simultaneously track 12 targets,8217;8217; he added. The IAF is also contemplating changing 8216;rules of engagement8217; especially with the aircraft capable of delivering missiles 8216;beyond visual range8217; BVR even beyond 70 km distance. Twelve aircraft will be delivered by end June 2003 under the second phase.

By 2004, the third phase will include latest air-to-surface ground and ship missiles making it unmatched world over, Fedorov said.