Source : Indian Defence Updates (IDU)
IAF plans to modify 20 more Sukhoi Su-30MKIs to carry BrahMos missiles
As the game-changing duo of World’s fastest supersonic cruise missile BrahMos with one of the world’s most versatile fighter Sukhoi Su-30MKI makes a punching combination for the enemy and considering the massive firepower of these two weapons together, Indian Air Force made a decision way back in 2016-17 to equip 40 Sukhoi Su-30MKIs with BrahMos-A in its current avatar which weighs a whopping 2.5 tonnes.
However, recognizing the game-changing potential of this capability, the Air Force has now made the strategic decision to modify an additional 20-30 Sukihoi fighter jets that will carry one BrahMos Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) which weighs 2.5 tonnes and two BrahMos Next Generation (NG) Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) that will transform the Su-30 into a potent mini bomber fully equipped to engage high-value targets located deep within the enemy territory.
DRDO to begin developmental trials of BrahMos-NG ALCM from 2024 onwards. Despite having a slightly shorter range of 290 kilometers compared to the BrahMos-A, the compact size of the missile is offset by its remarkable Mach 3.5 speed, making it nearly impossible for modern air defense systems to intercept. This fast velocity ensures that the BrahMos-NG ALCM can swiftly penetrate hostile airspace, evading interception and offering a high probability of target destruction. IAF plans to modify 20 more Sukhoi Su-30MKIs to carry BrahMos missiles IAF plans to modify 20 more Sukhoi Su-30MKIs to carry BrahMos missiles IAF plans to modify 20 more Sukhoi Su-30MKIs to carry BrahMos missiles IAF plans to modify 20 more Sukhoi Su-30MKIs to carry BrahMos missiles IgMp
