Article Posted on : - Sep 18, 2009

A file photo of MiG-29 fighter jet.

MOSCOW (BNS): Over 60 MiG-29 fighter jets in Indian Air Force’s arsenal would be fitted with advanced avionics, multi-functional radars and revamped engines with the Russian help, and the task would be complete by 2013, a Russian Defence ministry official has said.

The combat planes would be overhauled as per a contract signed between the Indian Defence ministry and Russia’s MiG company in 2008.

“The implementation of the contract started last year, and it will be fulfilled in 2013,” the official was quoted as saying by RIA Novosti.

A total of 63 MiG-29 fighters would be equipped with advanced avionics, new multi-functional Zhuk-ME radars, a new weapon control system and revamped engines, thereby increasing their service life from 25 to 40 years, the official said.

At present, four Indian MiG-29 fighters are being refurbished and flight-tested in Russia. The rest of the aircraft will be overhauled in India with the help of Russian experts, the official said.

The Russian defence firm will also construct MiG consignment depots, simulators for pilot training as well as service centres in India as per the contract, the report added.