Source : Indian Defence Updates (IDU)
AL-41FS engine on Russian Sukhoi fighters |
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is all set to start talks with Russia for Super Sukhoi upgrade for which it will seek blanket permission from Sukhoi Corporation to carry out upgrades on 150 Su-30 fighter jets of the Indian Air Force with Indian made equipment and systems.
The Indian Air Force is interested to equip new engines on the Su-30 and Russia is keen that the Indian Super Sukhoi upgrade program should include Russian systems and equipment that are part of the Su-30 SM-2 upgrade that includes swapping the older 122.5 kilonewton thrust AL-31F engine with the new powerful AL-41F1S engine that can generate 137.3 kilonewton thrust with afterburner and 142.2 kilonewton in case of an emergency.
The AL-41F1S engine offers better specific fuel consumption, improved endurance and has an increased overhaul life of 4,000 hours.