Sure, dont i agree that for the current radar, the size makes it equal match HOWEVER the Su still detects F-16 first. I accepted his RCS estimation, however its not that HE has come up with the radar specs, taken out of vayu, and which if you see is a VERY good source of material for the Su-30, and not at all biased or altered. However you posted that F-16's RCS is around 1m^2, so where did you find your info? Bear in mind, this should change soon with the Irbis.
On to missiles, i said R-73 was the best when it came out, Key please chk it out, i am correct, it was the best, the first of its kind and was unmatched for a LONG time to come.
On to the Russian doctrine. You ought to know that India does follow the Russian doctrine, it is only now that that is changing. Too many planes launching too many missiles at too few opponents. That is how it will be.
The arabs did not have the resources nor the sense to use the weapons the way it was INTENDED to be used. Even though taken on an individual value, Russia missile and again i take the example of R-73, outstripped any of its contemporaries. Now there are newer versions, and thus i say R-74 to be acquired along with Python 5 which is there already with the army. And which will be mated with teh Su-30. So definitely a superior missile on teh Indian side.
Now you say that woudl PAF have bought something knowing it is inferior? Well, PAF already had the plane type, all it needed to do was upgrade it, and buy some new ones to shore up the numbers, that it did, and made it a very smart decision. The difference b/w Su-30MKI and F-16 blk 52 is not that great now, which is the opposite of their time frames.the F-16 at its maxmum, matches the Su-30MKI, but never exceeds it however the MKI still has its advantages in many places. Now i ask you what happens when the MKI goes for MLU? What happens when new missiles like Python, Derby, and the new Russian ones come into existance. Do you realise that IAF gets the best that there is at the time, whereas PAF has to wait for USAF to get something better to give its old one.
AIM-120C-5 will be the missile to be used by PAF for a long time to come, its not even gotten them as of yet. And the world has moved far ahead. C-5 effectively nullifies any advantage IAF had in terms of missiles, however that is set to change again.
BTW reply soon Key, i like debating with you!