The Indian air force is to replace its 18 oldest Sukhoi Su-30K fighters with new aircraft in the multi-role MKI configuration, according to a diplomatic source quoted by Russia's Interfax news agency last week. Worth an estimated $700 million and brokered by Russia's Rosoboronexport agency, the deal will see the air force harmonise on operating the more-capable Su-30MKI platform, produced by Russia's Irkut.
Source: Flight International
The January incident at Ellsworth AFB resulted in the destruction of the $450 million bomber and a rare quadruple ejection of the crew, who were attempting to execute an instrument landing during poor weather.
Athens signed a long-sought letter of offer and acceptance with airframer Lockheed Martin covering 20 F-35 stealth fighters, with options for a further 20 jets.
The joint North American Aerospace Defense Command dispatched fighter aircraft from both the USA and Canada on 24 July to intercept a combined flight of bombers from Russia and China operating in international airspace around Alaska.
