Russia Offers AL-41 Engine Upgrade for IAF Su-30MKI Fleet in Super Sukhoi Modernisation Push
Bengaluru, February 2025 – In a major proposal with far-reaching implications for India’s air combat capabilities, Russia has offered to equip the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI fighters with the advanced AL-41 engines, the same powerplants that power Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter. The offer, confirmed at Aero India 2025, forms a central part of the IAF’s ambitious “Super Sukhoi” modernisation programme.
From AL-31 to AL-41: A Leap in Capability
The Su-30MKI’s current AL-31FP engines, built under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), deliver a thrust rating of about 123 kN with afterburner. While reliable, the engine represents technology from the 1980s–1990s era.
In contrast, the AL-41F1S engine (also known as izdeliye 117S) offers a 14–16% increase in thrust at around 142 kN, along with significant improvements in fuel efficiency and service life. Key enhancements include:
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Thrust-to-weight ratio boost, allowing better climb rates and payload capacity.
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Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) for optimized performance, reduced pilot workload, and improved maintainability.
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Increased service life from 2,000 hours (AL-31) to up to 4,000 hours (AL-41).
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Improved supercruise capability (sustained supersonic flight without afterburner).
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Greater compatibility with advanced thrust-vectoring nozzles for agility in dogfights.
These upgrades would effectively bring the Su-30MKI’s performance closer to that of a 4.5+ generation aircraft, narrowing the gap with newer platforms like the Rafale and Su-57.
India’s Super Sukhoi Modernisation Plan
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had already approved in November 2023 the ₹66,829 crore (US$7.9 billion) modernisation of 84 Su-30MKI jets. The comprehensive upgrade involves:
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Integration of the indigenous Uttam AESA radar.
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New electronic warfare suites and advanced avionics.
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Compatibility with indigenous weapons like the Astra Mk-1/2 beyond-visual-range missiles and Rudram anti-radiation missiles.
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Cockpit upgrades with wide-area displays and digital flight management systems.
The proposed AL-41 engine upgrade fits neatly into this roadmap, giving the aircraft a new lease of life and greatly expanding its strike radius and survivability.
HAL Nashik at the Core
The proposal also includes licensed production of the AL-41 engines at HAL’s Nashik facility, which already manufactures the AL-31FP engines. With two decades of expertise in assembling Su-30MKI aircraft and their engines, Nashik has the infrastructure and skilled workforce to absorb the new technology.
This transition would not only ensure technology transfer but also align with India’s “Make in India” and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals, strengthening indigenous manufacturing.
Operational and Strategic Impact
For the IAF, which operates around 260 Su-30MKIs, the upgrade would:
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Sharpen air dominance by matching next-generation threats in the region.
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Enhance long-range strike potential with heavier weapons loadouts.
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Improve survivability through higher agility and jamming resistance.
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Extend fleet life, keeping the Su-30MKI relevant for the next two decades.
Officials note that the AL-41’s design compatibility with the Su-30MKI airframe means the integration process would be less disruptive, avoiding major structural redesign and reducing costs and timelines.
Challenges and Considerations
While attractive, the proposal is not without hurdles:
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Cost and timeline evaluations are ongoing, with India seeking maximum local manufacturing.
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Geopolitical factors, including the risk of U.S. CAATSA sanctions, are under review.
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Domestic options, such as upgraded AL-31FP variants with higher indigenous content and future Indian engine programs, are being studied as cost-effective alternatives.
Russian Assurance
At Aero India, Vadim Badekha, head of Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation, reaffirmed the offer: “We are offering the new AL-41 engine as part of the Sukhoi-30 upgrade to India. This engine will significantly enhance speed, endurance, and overall combat effectiveness.”
The Russian proposal to equip India’s Su-30MKI fleet with the AL-41 engine represents a transformative opportunity in the Super Sukhoi modernisation programme. If accepted, it would not only extend the frontline relevance of the Su-30MKI but also elevate it to a class of aircraft capable of competing with newer generation fighters.
For India, the decision balances the promise of cutting-edge Russian technology with the imperatives of indigenous self-reliance, cost, and geopolitical strategy. Whichever path is chosen, the Su-30MKI is set to remain the backbone of the Indian Air Force for decades to come.
