Armenia looks to India for Su-30MKI fighters as Russian deal falters

In October 2024, Armenia's Ministry of Defence announced it had initiated discussions with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace company, to purchase a fleet of Su-30MKI Flanker-H fighters along with specialized armaments. 

Simultaneously, Armenia is moving to cancel its outstanding order for eight Russian Su-30SM Flanker-C jets, a deal that has been on hold for five years, Caliber.Az reports via French media.

This procurement would make Armenia the first nation to purchase India’s domestically manufactured Su-30MKIs. Currently, Armenia’s fighter fleet comprises four Su-30SM jets received in 2019, alongside around fifteen older Su-25Ks. Shortly after acquiring these initial Su-30SM units, Armenia placed an additional order for eight more; however, despite having paid up to 70% of the contract's value, no aircraft have been delivered due to Russian production delays prioritizing domestic needs.

The lengthy delay has led Armenia to explore alternative suppliers, and HAL could fulfil Armenia’s requirement by supplying eight new Su-30MKIs, provided Sukhoi reimburses Armenia’s advance payment. In addition, Armenia’s current Su-30SM fleet would undergo an upgrade to meet the Su-30MKI specifications, including the integration of the advanced Uttam AESA radar.

“After five years, it seems that the patience of the Armenians has come to an end. Russia may well lose not only a customer but also an ally. Armenia has begun negotiations with HAL for the delivery of 8 to 12 Su-30MKIs. In fact, Hindustan Aircraft Limited will take delivery of eight new aircraft, provided Sukhoi reimburses the advance payment, and will upgrade four current Su-30SMs to the Su-30MKI standard. This will include replacing the original passive antenna electronically scanned radar with an active Uttam radar.

The talks, known as the Super 30 program, revolve around a batch of Astra 1 long-range air-to-air missiles, Rudram 1 anti-radar missiles and SAAW-guided bombs. All three are designed and manufactured in India,” the report notes.

Among India's other defence exports to Armenia are Akash air defence missile systems, Pinaka multi-launch rocket systems, and 155mm artillery guns. Armenia has previously secured a variety of defence equipment from India, including the indigenously developed Akash air-defence missiles with a 25 km range, along with rocket systems, missiles, radar units, night-vision technology, protective gear, and various ammunition. Some of these acquisitions were made amid Armenia's conflict with Azerbaijan.

By Tamilla Hasanova