In a massive upgrade for Indian Airforce, India and Russia are planning to equip Su-30MKI jets with R-37M and R-77M air-to-air missiles.
New Delhi: In a bold move aimed at boosting the aerial edge of the Indian Air Force amid the ongoing conflicts between India and US, India and Russia are in advanced talks to equip Su-30MKI jets with R-37M and R-77M air-to-air missiles, making them more powerful at a time when India faces a shortage of 5th generation fighter jets. Here are all the details you need to know about R-37M and R-77M air-to-air missiles.
Why is India updating Su-30MKI jets?
At a time when US President Trump is unhappy with India-Russia trade relations, the strategic move of upgrading the Su-30MKI jets with R-37M and R-77M air-to-air missiles aims to counter China’s PL-15 series and address Beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat gaps. Moreover, the deal may include local production under ‘Make in India’, even as DRDO progresses on the indigenous Astra Mk-II.
Why R-37M and R-77M air-to-air missiles are dangerous?
The R-37M is a Russian hypersonic air-to-air missile with a 300–400 km range, designed to strike high-value targets like AWACS and tankers. Its export variant, RVV-BD, with a 200 km range, is part of the Indian Air Force arsenal.
The upgraded R-77M missile offers a 190 km range (up from 110 km in the R-77-1), features an AESA seeker and double-pulse motor, boosting the Su-30MKI’s ability to counter long-range threats like the PL-15E.
PM Modi speaks with Russian President Vladimir Putin
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a “very good and detailed conversation” with Russian President Vladimir Putin over phone during which both leaders not only vowed to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership but also held detailed discussions on developments concerning Ukraine.
While thanking President Putin for his detailed assessment, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent position for peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict. The important meeting came in wake of US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose additional tariffs on India for importing oil from Russia.
(With inputs from agencies)
