Russia has formally issued a contract to the Irkutsk Aviation Production Association to upgrade thirty Su-30 fighters to the enhanced Su-30KN standard. The KN model includes all weather, day or night, multi-role capabilities. It can carry a wide variety of guided and unguided weapons. Delivery of the refitted aircraft is set for 2002-2003. Irkutsk hopes that having the upgraded aircraft in service with the Russian Air Force will improve the chances of export sales.--Stephen V Cole