Sukhoi Su-30 MKI: India's Air Force Backbone & Its ₹1,125 Crore Power Revealed

• Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, the backbone of the Indian Air Force, costs approximately ₹1,125 crore per aircraft; a recent ₹13,500 crore deal secured 12 new jets.
• Crucial for India due to its multirole capability, 'Mini AWACS' function, and being the only aircraft globally capable of firing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
• Known for 'super maneuverability', it's a twin-engine, two-seater multirole fighter with a top speed of 2,120 km/h (Mach 2.0) and a range of 3,000 km.
• Carries up to 8,000 kg of diverse weaponry, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and anti-ship missiles, supported by a two-pilot system for extended missions.
• 84 aircraft are being upgraded to 'Super Sukhoi' standards for ₹65,000 crore, integrating indigenous 'Virupaksha' radar and Astra Mark-3 missiles, extending lifespan to 2055.