Armenia to Buy Indian-Made Su-30 Fighter Jets

Armenia is finalizing negotiations with India to purchase Su-30MKI multirole fighter jets produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

According to Indian Defence News, the deal is in the final stage of approval and is viewed as a strategic response to Azerbaijan’s recent purchase of 40 Pakistani-made JF-17C Block III fighters.

The contract is estimated at $2.5-3 billion. The first phase includes delivery of 8-12 aircraft, as well as personnel training, ground support, and weapons integration.

Initial deliveries are expected in late 2027, with completion by 2029, after HAL meets its internal production commitments for the Indian Air Force.

The Armenian version of the Su-30MKI will include Indian upgrades, according to preliminary information: Uttam AESA radar, Astra Mk1 and Mk2 missiles, and an electronic warfare suite from DRDO.

Armenia previously purchased Indian Pinaka multiple launch rocket systems and 155 mm ATAGS howitzers.

The purchases reflect Armenia’s continued shift toward Indian defense technology and reduced dependence on Russian supplies.