Indian Air Force Advances Precision Strike Capabilities with Rampage Missile Deployment on Su-30MKI Jets

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has declared the operational deployment of Israeli-made Rampage missiles on its Su-30MKI fighter jets during Operation Sindoor. This development marks a notable advancement in India's precision strike capabilities.

The official announcement was made by Air Marshal A.P. Singh at a media briefing, highlighting the integration of the Rampage missile onto the Su-30MKI platform as a major step forward in the IAF’s long-range strike readiness.

The IAF also released video footage taken from pilot helmet cameras, capturing the launch of a 570-kg Rampage missile from the wing-mounted pylon of a Su-30MKI over the Himalayan region. The video includes the radio communication “Fox Three – Rampage Away,” and shows the missile's guided trajectory towards a simulated enemy command bunker, culminating in multiple secondary explosions upon impact.

An IAF official confirmed that this event marks the inaugural operational deployment of the Rampage on Su-30MKIs. The missile's integration was facilitated by software and avionics upgrades from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ensuring it worked seamlessly with the aircraft’s AL-31FP engine and digital fire control systems.

Previously, the Rampage missile was utilized with IAF’s Jaguar DARIN-III strike aircraft and MiG-29K carrier-based fighters. On the Jaguars, it was used in deep-strike missions against strategic enemy targets, while on the MiG-29K, it played a role in anti-ship operations. Integrating the missile with the larger Su-30MKI required structural enhancements and system recalibrations to accommodate its load and flight dynamics.

India initially acquired Rampage missiles from Israel between 2020 and 2021 amid escalating tensions with China. Since then, the missile has become integral to the IAF's modernization strategy, significantly boosting its capacity to conduct precise, stand-off strikes in challenging conditions.

Reports suggest that India is investigating the possibility of local production of the Rampage missile under the “Made in India” initiative. This follows the successful indigenous production of the BrahMos missile, and such a move could enhance domestic defense capabilities and promote self-reliance in critical weapon systems.