In response to Azerbaijan’s $4.6 billion agreement to buy 40 JF-17 Thunder Block-III aircraft from Pakistan, Armenia is readjusting its air power strategy by speeding up talks with India to acquire the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
This purchase by Azerbaijan, which includes long-range PL-15 missiles and sophisticated Chinese avionics, is perceived as a major change in the balance of air power in the region, forcing Armenia to look for a reliable counterbalance.
Yerevan’s renewed interest in the Su-30MKI, a sophisticated multirole fighter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and co-developed by Russia and India, as a result of both strategic consideration and operational necessity.
The Su-30MKI is renowned for its adaptability, long-range attack capabilities, and integration with native Indian avionics and weapons, such as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile.
When compared to Western alternatives like the French Rafale, which is much more expensive and has raised concerns about its viability in recent high-intensity conflicts, the platform’s demonstrated performance, affordability, and strong logistical support from India make it especially appealing.
Since the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in 2020, India has become an important defense partner for Armenia, providing cutting-edge equipment like the Pinaka multiple launch rocket system and the Akash-1S medium-range surface-to-air air defense missile.
Armenia’s reported talks to purchase eight to twelve Su-30MKIs and its desire to upgrade its current fleet of four Russian-made Su-30SM fighters to the Indian “Super Sukhoi” standard—which would incorporate Indian AESA radar, cutting-edge electronic warfare systems, and domestic munitions—further demonstrate this growing partnership.
Due to production limitations made worse by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, delays in the supply of further Su-30SMs from Russia have also contributed to Armenia’s shift toward Indian fighter jets. In addition to filling shortfalls in capabilities, Armenia’s move to India lessens its dependency on Russian military supplies, which are now less dependable due to geopolitical constraints.
Despite its small size, the Armenian Air Force plays a crucial role in the country’s defense, particularly in securing the country’s mountainous airspace and offering close air support. The possible purchase of Su-30MKIs, supported by Indian assistance for training, upkeep, and upgrades, would greatly improve Armenia’s operational adaptability and deterrence posture.
In terms of strategy, this action highlights a larger realignment in the South Caucasus, as Armenia aims to counterbalance the Pakistan-Azerbaijan axis’s expanding military might, which is now supported by Chinese technology. Armenia can retain credible air power without the financial or political limitations associated with Western platforms thanks to the Su-30MKI’s excellent capabilities and affordable price.
A significant change in its defense procurement strategy, Armenia’s pursuit of the Su-30MKI strengthens its relationship with India and ushers in a new era in the regional aerial arms race. In addition to meeting Armenia’s immediate security demands, this alliance establishes the framework for long-term defense cooperation and capabilities building in a geopolitical environment that is changing quickly.
