Article Posted on : - May 27, 2009

Sukhoi Su-30MKI. A File photo.

GUWAHATI (BNS): IAF's Tezpur base will soon get Sukhoi fighter planes as part of its upgradation plans to meet challenges from China.

The Air Force Station in Tezpur is all ready to house the much-awaited Sukhoi aircraft which were expected to arrive around June, chief of Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal S K Bhan said, as per media reports.

A source said the Su-30MKI is likely to be fitted with BRAHMOS missile with more than 900 combat radius enabling it to strike all major cities in southwest China.

Deployment of the highly-integrated, twin-finned Sukhois for the first time in the Eastern sector would give India an air advantage over neighbouring China. The aircraft could fly upto 3,500 km without refuelling and upto 5,000 km with additional fuel.

Asked about the importance of the deployment of Sukhois at Tezpur given its proximity to China, he said, "it is very significant."

"The renovated runway is likely to be inaugurated by mid-June for inducting the Su-30MKI squadron," said Tezpur-based defence spokesman Col R Kalia.