Archive · 7 Sep 2026
India Considers Russian 300-Kilometre Missile Upgrade for Su-30MKI
India wants to make some of its Su-30MKI fighter jets more powerful.
It is considering adding a Russian missile called the RVV-BD.
The article says this missile can reach targets as far as 300 kilometres away.
It is designed to attack aircraft in the air, including special surveillance planes.
The plan still needs to be considered by India’s Defence Acquisition Council.
The proposal comes before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s planned visit.
India is also developing its own Astra missiles and buying Meteor missiles from France.
It is separately working to modernize its Su-30MKI fleet and upgrade their engines.
India’s Defence Ministry is considering modifying Su-30MKI aircraft to carry Russia’s RVV-BD air-to-air missile.
The RVV-BD is described as having a range of up to 300 kilometres and the ability to engage airborne targets.
The proposal was scheduled for consideration by the Defence Acquisition Council ahead of Vladimir Putin’s visit.
More than 260 Su-30MKI aircraft serve as the Indian Air Force’s main fighter fleet.
India is also pursuing Astra, Meteor, Su-30MKI modernization, and AL-31 engine-related projects.
- Who
- India’s Defence Ministry, the Indian Air Force, and Russian defense partners are involved; Vladimir Putin’s visit is also mentioned.
- What
- A proposal would modify Su-30MKI aircraft to integrate the Russian RVV-BD long-range air-to-air missile.
- When
- The proposal was scheduled for Defence Acquisition Council consideration ahead of Vladimir Putin’s planned visit.
- Where
- The decision is being considered in India, with New Delhi identified in the report.
- Why
- To increase the Indian Air Force’s ability to detect and strike airborne targets at longer distances.
- Missile
- Russian-origin RVV-BD air-to-air missile
- Reported range
- Up to 300 kilometres
- Aircraft
- Su-30MKI fighter jets
- Fleet size
- More than 260 Su-30MKI aircraft are in service
- Decision body
- Defence Acquisition Council
- Other missile programs
- India is advancing Astra development and has ordered Meteor missiles from France
- Additional modernization
- The Su-30MKI fleet and AL-31 engines are slated for overhaul-related work