In recent developments, Russia has proposed to enhance India’s Su-30MKI fleet by equipping it with the advanced AL-41 engine, which would be locally produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the “Make in India” initiative. This upgrade, part of the IAF’s “Super Sukhoi” modernization program, is aimed at significantly boosting the aircraft’s performance and maintaining India’s air superiority amid regional tensions. Concurrently, India’s dependence on U.S.-supplied jet engines has been underscored by recent tariffs imposed by Washington, which threaten to disrupt defense supply chains and modernization plans for the IAF. With the IAF’s squadron numbers declining and the looming retirement of aging aircraft, there is a pressing need for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. While Russia’s offer could alleviate some of this dependency, it raises concerns about potential trade-offs in engine performance. Experts recommend a dual-track approach that diversifies suppliers while fostering indigenous capabilities, with discussions ongoing with companies like Safran and Rolls-Royce for high-thrust engine development. Overall, these developments highlight India’s strategic imperative to enhance its defense capabilities while navigating geopolitical pressures and fostering domestic production.