V.Tikhomirov Scientific Research Institute of Instrument Design (NIIP) is waiting for Russian air forces to present a performance specification for upgrade of Bars-R radar control system installed on Su-30SM fighters, RIA Novosti reports with reference to the enterprise’s CEO Yuri Beliy.

“Bars-R radar control system (RCS) of Su-30SM aircraft was derived from Bars RCS installed on Su-30MKI fighters, developed under a contract with Indian air forces. The system was upgraded in accordance with a performance specification developed by Russian air forces. However, the RCS has more upgrade potential, so we are expecting a new performance specification developed by the air forces in order to continue upgrading the RCS,” Beliy said.

He added that the Russian party has been negotiating upgrade of Bars systems with India. “Distinctive feature of Su-30MKI and Su-30SM aircraft is radar with electronic scanning capability based on a phased antenna array with a manual azimuth adjustment, which provides significant advantages in terms of engagement area. Recent joint military exercise held by western partners with the participation of F-15, F-16, Typhoon and Su-30MKI aircraft (operated by Indian air forces), have once again demonstrated advantages of Su-30MKI fighters fitted with our system,” Beliy said.

Su-30SM (production upgraded version) is the multi-role super-maneuverable fighter. It was derived from Su-30MK. The fighter meets the requirements of Russian air forces in terms of radar, radio communications systems, friend-or-foe identification system, ejection seats and a number of other systems.

Bars multi-role radar control system is intended for: providing the crew and weapon control system with information about air and ground targets, their coordinates and characteristics, with a level of accuracy required to attack, target illumination and transferring commands to “air-to-air” weapons.

NIIP specializes in developing weapon control systems for fighters as well as developing medium-range air defense systems, which are designed to protect facilities and troops from aerial attacks. At present the main shareholders of NIIP are Almaz-Antey Concern (56%) and Radioelectronic Technologies Concern (KRET - 44%), which is part of Rostec State Corporation.