After losing two Su-30 fighters, Uganda has entrusted India with maintaining the remaining three.
Uganda has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), an Indian state-owned enterprise, to handle maintenance, repair, and modernization of the country's remaining three Su-30MK2 fighter jets. Originally operating a batch of these aircraft, Uganda faced a severe shortage of operational planes after losing two, prompting this decision.
The Ugandan Air Force acquired six Su-30MK2 fighters from Russia between 2011 and 2012. These aircraft have been frequently deployed in operations against Sudanese rebels and other regional military actions. Intensive use, coupled with inadequate spare parts supply, has meant that only three to four aircraft have remained combat-ready for years.
According to sources, ongoing regional combat operations combined with prolonged shortages of original equipment parts have drastically reduced the number of available aircraft. When seeking external assistance, Uganda had only three or four fighters capable of taking off.
To find an alternative maintenance provider, Uganda turned to India. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was selected due to its extensive experience in licensed production and maintenance of Su-30 series aircraft.
Under the contract terms, Indian technicians will take full responsibility for the three remaining Su-30MK2 fighters in the Ugandan Air Force, conducting inspections, major overhauls, and upgrades to restore the combat capability of this air unit.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1868930345220172/
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