The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is preparing to seek final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for a significant upgrade of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Su-30MKI fighter jets, a modernization program dubbed “Super Sukhoi.” This initiative, estimated to cost around Rs 65,000 crore, aims to enhance the capabilities of 84 aircraft, extending their service life well into the 2050s. The upgrade, which follows the receipt of Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in November 2023, is crucial given the IAF’s current strength, which has fallen to approximately 29 squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned 42. The enhancements are set to modernize the fleet to a 4.5+ generation standard, including the integration of indigenous capabilities like the Virupaksha Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and advanced avionics, with over 80% indigenization expected. However, concerns persist regarding the bureaucratic inertia surrounding the project, with previous modernization efforts having stalled due to protracted negotiations and delays in decision-making processes. The urgency of this upgrade is underscored by the IAF’s need to maintain operational readiness against growing threats, particularly from neighboring countries that are accelerating their own military modernization efforts. The successful implementation of the Super Sukhoi program is vital for ensuring the IAF’s competitive edge in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.