Bangalore: A new batch of Sukhoi 30 MKI multi-role fighters with new systems on board have arrived from Russia, Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal S Krishnaswamy said today (Dec 17, 2003).

"A new batch of Su30 MKI's have arrived on schedule, it is being assembled and is in the next phase..It will have new systems on board and the pilots will fly them," Krishnaswamy told reporters on the sidelines of the annual general meeting of the Aeronautical Society of India in Bangalore.

He said the new aircraft, which has an indigenous mission computer, would be based at the Sukhoi squadron in Pune.

Asserting that the present peace move with Pakistan was a major step, Krishnaswamy said," Of course, we have to keep vigilant, so that the peace initiatives are given a good support."

On MiG aircraft, he said, the Indian Air Force had over 400 aircraft, which is a national asset and the IAF was maintaining it well.

Krishnaswamy said the private sector should play a larger role in the Indian aviation industry and expressed confidence about products developed by the industry being used in IAF aircraft.

PTI