The Indian Ministry of Defence is considering the option of upgrading the country's Su-30MKI fighter jets.
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This is with the aim of giving these fighters the ability to use the new Russian long-range missile “R-37M”, known in its export version as “RVV-BD”, which is a long-range air-to-air missile.
According to the Indian news agency ANI, this proposal is scheduled to be discussed during a meeting of the Indian Defence Procurement Council, chaired by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Local media reported that New Delhi, seeking to bolster its air capabilities given its limited fighter fleet, is focused on upgrading its warplanes. In this context, the long-range R-37M missile is considered a crucial component in enhancing the capabilities of India's more than 260 Su-30MKI fighter jets, which form the backbone of the Indian Air Force's fighter fleet.
The missile is distinguished by its ability to engage aerial targets at long ranges, including early warning and control aircraft and aerial refueling tankers. Figures regarding its range vary, with some sources indicating a range of up to 300 kilometers, while others cite a range of approximately 200 kilometers.
However, India is also buying French Meteor long-range missiles for its Rafale fighter jets, and is continuing to develop a local counterpart to this class of air weapon under the Astra program.
The R-37M missile was developed by the Vympel Design Bureau as an upgrade of the R-33 long-range missile, originally designed to arm MiG-31 interceptors. The R-37M is the improved version of the missile, while the export version is designated RVV-BD. According to footage released by the Russian Ministry of Defense, this weapon has been integrated with Su-35S and Su-30 fighter jets for use in special operations.
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