France urges India to halt Su‑30 SM parts export to Russia
France has formally requested that India block the export of components for the Su-30SM, reaching Russia through Kazakhstan. This activity circumvents Western sanctions meant to halt Russia's production and maintenance of its most advanced military equipment.
6:59 AM EDT, October 24, 2024
According to the Ukrainian service Militarnyj, an investigation conducted by the InformNapalm group uncovered this situation. The investigation revealed that Kazakhstan companies are involved in the repair and maintenance of Russian Su-30SM aircraft, utilizing components from the French companies Thales and Safran.
Production of Russian Su-30SM despite sanctions
Representatives from both companies assured the media they are not exporting their equipment to Kazakhstan. Further examination confirmed that India plays a key role in this supply chain. Companies from Kazakhstan are acquiring the French components needed for the Russian Su-30SM from India.
India is the largest operator of these aircraft, with over 250 Su-30MKI units, and has extensive experience in maintaining machines of Russian origin. Moreover, many Indian companies have become significant players in the global market, acting as key suppliers of components for the Su-30 family of aircraft. The government in Delhi received an official request from the French government to block the export of spare parts—including multifunction displays, navigation systems, and HUD indicators—to countries that might subsequently supply them to Russia.
India has not yet responded to the French request. Delhi has long sought to maintain good relations with both Russia and the West. The country has historically relied on Soviet/Russian equipment but is now also entering defense contracts with NATO countries, including France, notably with the Dassault Rafale M.
Russia's most advanced fighter aircraft
The Su-30SM is Russia's most advanced fighter aircraft, distinguished by its operational range of about 1,864 miles and its ability to operate at altitudes up to 57,415 feet. Nearly 72 feet in length, the aircraft is designed for targeting and destroying objects in the air, on land, and at sea. It is equipped with a standard aircraft cannon and twelve pylons for additional armaments, which can weigh up to 17,637 pounds. The Su-30SM can carry missiles such as the R-73, S-8, or Kh-25, as well as guided bombs.
