Sun Nov 03 17:37:49 UTC 2024: ## Indian Air Force to Upgrade 84 Su-30MKI Fighter Jets with AI-Powered Maintenance

**Chennai, India** – The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to embark on a comprehensive upgrade of its first batch of 84 Su-30MKI fighter jets, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) for enhanced maintenance and inventory management. The upgrade, which has received preliminary approval from the Defence Acquisition Council, is expected to take five to seven years and will involve the modernization of 51 systems with a significant indigenous component.

Air Marshal C.R. Mohan, the Air Officer Maintenance, confirmed the upgrade, stating that the financial aspects are currently being finalized. “Once the government authorizes it, the upgrade will commence,” he said, adding that if approved early next year, the project could begin immediately.

The Su-30MKIs, which constitute the backbone of the IAF’s fighter strength, will receive a major overhaul, encompassing radar, avionics, and fly-by-wire systems. While Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will spearhead the majority of the upgrades, original equipment manufacturer Russia will be involved in specific areas such as the fly-by-wire system integration.

To further enhance efficiency and reduce human intervention, the IAF is exploring AI-based solutions for maintenance and inventory management. This includes a pilot project with the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, to develop AI-powered solutions for engine and asset maintenance, as well as spares and inventory optimization.

The IAF aims to implement a “minimal human intervention, maximum combat potential” approach by leveraging digital twin technology and “digitally fingerprinting” parts. This will involve creating a digital inventory of parts, identifying duplicates, and optimizing inventory size. The project also entails integrating the tri-service inventory to achieve further cost savings.

The upgrade of the Su-30MKIs, coupled with the integration of AI into maintenance and inventory management, signifies the IAF’s commitment to modernizing its fleet and maintaining a high level of combat readiness. The project is expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the IAF, ensuring its dominance in the region for years to come.

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