(a) whether the Government has inducted Sukhoi-30 multi-purpose fighter aircraft into the Indian Air Force;
(b) if so, whether there has been any delay in the procurement of these aircraft;
(c) if so, the reasons therefor;
(d) whether the work relating to upgradation of these aircraft has been completed; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) & (c): The delay in procurement of the aircraft is mainly due to the fact that the Su-30 MKI project is one of the most complex projects, where the Russian, Western and the Indian systems are being integrated.
(d) & (e): The upgrade programme was envisaged after the delivery of Su-30 MKI Phase 3 aircraft. These aircraft have been delivered in December, 2004. The upgrade of Sukhoi-30 aircraft of the earlier phases is planned from the year 2006 onwards.