Shillong, Mar 25 The first batch of Su-30 multi-role fighter aircraft would be deployed in June at Tezpur airbase in Assam, a senior IAF Commander said here.

"Besides, Su-30s, we are also getting some medium lift helicopters to be deployed at various air bases of the command by the end of this year,"Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal S K Bhan said.

The Su-30 MKI multi-role combat jets would be deployed for the first time in the north eastern sector. Having aerial refuelling capability, the fighters have a combat radius of 1,500 km.

Air Marshal Bhan said once the 126 multi-role combat aircraft deal with Russia is through, IAF would deploy some of the squadrons in eastern sector.

The IAFs 126 multi-combat jet deal is said to be the country&aposs biggest ever defence deal, he claimed.

Eastern Air Command is into 50th year. Its headquarter was first established at Fort William in Kolkata but was subsequently moved to its present location in Shillong taking over an old Army camp.