In a startling saga of compromises made on the safety and capability of India’s frontline fighter aircraft besides posing danger to the life of pilots, it has come to light that at least 18 of brand new Sukhoi 30 MKI had been fitted with already-used and secondhand engines.
Noteworthy Cat 2 (category B) or secondhand engines were installed into brand new Sukhoi 30 MKIs by HAL facility at Nashik without the knowledge and approval of the defence ministry.
As reported by Deccan Chronicle, it has come to light that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered at least 18 Su-30MKI fighters to the Indian Air Force that are fitted with second-hand engines.
Each IAF Su-30MKI is powered by a pair of AL-31FP turbofan engines. Sukhoi 30 MKI has two AL 31FP engines
Noteworthy Cat 2 (category B) or secondhand engines were installed into brand new Sukhoi 30 MKIs by HAL facility at Nashik without the knowledge and approval of the defence ministry.
However according to the report, what is surprising is the acceptance of such aircraft by the IAF. “Certain aircraft with one new and one old engine were wrongly accepted by IAF and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance. As these arrangements were not in tune with contractual provisions, it should have been rejected by IAF and DGAQA.
In any case, IAF should have obtained approval from MoD for accepting aircraft with one second hand engine.”
Currently India has a fleet of about 230 fighters although just half of them are operational.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is the most modern fighter jet in IAF inventory. Seven Sukhoi 30 MKIs have crashed to date, causing a loss of about Rs 2,350 crore
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Image Credits: defenceindia.org
This revelation about the use of secondhand engines in brand new Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft is deeply concerning. It not only compromises the safety and capabilities of India’s frontline fighter fleet but also raises questions about the oversight and approval processes within the defense ministry and HAL. The fact that some of these aircraft were accepted without proper scrutiny is surprising and highlights the need for stricter quality control. Ensuring the reliability and performance of military equipment is crucial, especially for a country’s defense forces. This issue deserves immediate attention and resolution to maintain the integrity of India’s air defense capabilities.