Editorial: The Sukhoi-30 MKI - India's Two-Front War Ace?

IAF Su-30MKI (Wiki Info - Image: Wiki Commons)

By Ankit Panda

The Sukhoi-30 MKI could be the Indian Air Force’s ace up its sleeve as a “swing force” fighter in a two-front war.

A report in the Russia and India Report takes a fascinating look at the role of the twin-fin Sukhoi-30 MKI air superiority fighters in the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat strategy. The Su-30 MKI is an eminently versatile fighter that is capable of meeting the IAF’s evolving needs, particularly in the context of a nightmare scenario involving a two-front war with Pakistan and China. I recommend Flashpoints readers check out the whole report for a fairly comprehensive description of the Su-30 MKI’s place in India’s air power strategy going forward.

The Su-30 is a technological transition away from the dated and retired MiG-21 the IAF relied on for so long, and its speed, 1800 km range, maneuverability, and firepower make it absolutely pivotal in ensuring the IAF’s capability to fight a two-front war. The report cites the IAF’s April 2013 exercises – its largest ever – which involved “as many as 400 combat aircraft plus 200 transport planes and helicopters,” and tested the IAF’s readiness for a two-front war against China and Pakistan.

According to the Times of India, a two front war with Pakistan and China is somewhat of a nightmare scenario for Indian military planners – neither foe’s conventional military capabilities are anything to scoff at. Estimates suggest that China could mobilize 21 fighter squadrons against India from its airbases in Tibet, and Pakistan could deploy “21 to 25 fighter squadrons” against India. 

Read the full story at The Diplomat