The Indian Air Force (IAF) is intensifying efforts to develop a dedicated electronic warfare (EW) aircraft to bolster its capabilities against advanced integrated air defense threats, especially from China. Earlier proposals to convert Su-30MKI fighters into EW variants, known as “Desi Growler,” were set aside due to financial constraints and technical challenges, including integration issues with the aircraft’s engines. Currently, the IAF, in partnership with DRDO, is focusing on integrating mature indigenous EW technologies with existing platforms, primarily the Su-30MKI and the upcoming Tejas Mk2. These aircraft would be equipped with advanced jammers, radar warning receivers, and AI-driven spectrum management systems, forming a modular “pod-and-play” architecture to allow rapid mission reconfiguration. This initiative aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, aiming for 70-80% indigenous content. The program is seen as crucial to protect deep-strike assets such as BrahMos-equipped Su-30s by ensuring air superiority and disrupting enemy defenses effectively amidst regional security challenges. Initial prototypes may incorporate DRDO’s High-Power Jammer technology, with first integration expected around 2026-2027. The IAF is also upgrading Su-30MKI with Advanced Self-Protection Jammer pods for enhanced survivability in contested zones. This focused push signals a strategic elevation of India’s EW capabilities to counter evolving threats on the subcontinent.