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The upgradation project of the MiG-29 fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will commence shortly as Russia will be delivering 26 engines to India and an added 120 to be assembled in India, following an agreement with the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) at the ongoing MAKS 2009 Air Show near Moscow.
According to officials, the RD-33/series 3 engine, being delivered by state-run arms exporter Rosoboronexport, is an upgraded version of the powerful RD-33 turbofan with thrust vectoring for the MiG family of fighters.
The engine provides superior maneuverability and enhances the fighter’s performance in close air combat.
Russia has already signed a $ 250 million modernization deal for MiG-29 engines and the terms include HAL to make 120 RD-33/series 3 jet engines at its Koraput plant in India for the upgrades of the fighters.
This will enable HAL to master the assembly of the RD-33 jet engines and use the experience in the assembly of next generation jet engines.
Interestingly, the same engine is installed in the MiG-35 fighters that are participating in the multi-billion dollar tender for 126 fighters for the Indian Air Force.
In fact, Russia is willing to transfer key technology if MiG-35 emerges as the winner of the tender.
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