Kornukov signals large-scale aircraft refit programme (249 words)

Published: 3/9/2001

The Su-30KN, which first flew in March 1999, has made 76 test flights from Zhukovsky, near Moscow, including test firings at the range at Akhtubinsk, according to Alexander Veprev, technical director of IAPO quoted in the Military News Agency. The 22nd Su-30 (known as Project 302) is a test-bed for new equipment for the Russian Air Force upgrade programme of frontline fighter aircraft, with a package from IAPO and Russian Avionics (RA), designed to offer a high level of commonality between the frontline aircraft in multi-role combat situations. The upgrade took only 1.5 months, according to Veprev, supporting the proposition that the upgrade can be done in situ. In recent interviews the Chief of the Air Staff, General Anatoly Kornukov, has said that the Air Force is about to embark on a large-scale aircraft upgrade programme, with Su-24, Su-25, Su-27 and Su-30 and Mig-29 for refitting. Currently, ten Su-27 and Su-24 are scheduled for refits in 2001, at fifteen plants, with a further 80-100 aircraft due for upgrade in the next few years. Reports have suggested a quicker schedule of 10 Su-27UBM and Su-30KN already ordered, with the possibility of a further twenty plus an accelerating programme in 2002. The upgrade of the Su-27 and Su-30, to the multi-role Su-30KN standard, is seen by the Air Force as being the most pressing requirement, given aircraft and budgetary constraints. The upgrade offers significant improvements in tracking and targeting capability.

Article ID: 2405