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Su-30MKI aircraft inducted into IAF

Among others, Defence Minister George Fernandes and Indian Air Force chief S Krishnaswamy were present on the occasion.

The defence minister said with this, the IAF has become one of the most formidable forces and it will send "proper signal to those people who look India with an evil eye".

It was a historic day for India, Fernandes said, and a proud moment that saw the induction of such unmatched combat aircraft.

The Su-30MKI is the first Russian fighter aircraft designed in collaboration with a foreign customer. It is seen as the "ultimate" evolution of the highly regarded Su-27 Flanker, which was first produced in the former Soviet Union in 1982.

Air Chief Marshal Krishnaswamy said no country in the world has such a formidable aircraft.

"With pressure building on the border, having such an aircraft certainly gives an edge to our country," he said.

Fernandes said the second batch of 12 Su-30MKIs would be delivered by June 2003. The third consignment of 10 aircraft would reach by the end of the same year.

The defence minister said India has also signed a contract with Russia for licensed production of 140 Su-30MKIs by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. He said the fleet would eventually form the backbone of India's air power for many years.

Air Chief Marshall Krishnaswamy said the induction of Su-30MKI represents a significant milestone in India's long-term modernisation and re-equipment plan.

The Su-30MKI is the aircraft that other combat jets are measured against.

PTI

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