Belarus to receive first batch of Su-30SM multirole fighters in 2019, deliveries to Kazakhstan in progress - Irkut Corp
IRKUTSK. Jan 30 (Interfax-AVN) - Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited the Irkutsk Aircraft Plant, an affiliate of the Irkut Corporation, on Wednesday to familiarize himself with the progress of production and modernization of Sukhoi Su-30SM multirole fighters for the armies of Russia and member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
The minister was informed that two Su-30SM squadrons had been commissioned in Kazakhstan and that the deliveries would continue. The Belarusian Armed Forces are preparing to receive the first batch of Su-30SM fighters in 2019.
The minister also learned about the finalized period of Su-30SM improvements and ground checks. The first modernized plane is preparing for flight tests, which will involve three planes in the end.
After the tests are over, modifications will be made in the production new Su-30SM jets and maintenance of similar planes, which are currently in operation.