Islamic Republic News Agency
Friday, March 31, 2006
Iranian Aircraft Industries (IACI) has joined with Malek Ashtar’s Aeronautical Research Center to develop the first indigenous Iranian military jet since the formation of the Islamic Republic in 1979, senior management sources told The Islamic Republic News Agency.
Much more ambitious and larger than the Shafaq, the Saeqeh light combat fighter hopes to address the domestic demand for next generation combat aircraft and advance training jets. The single seat, twin-engine plane will be suited for a variety of air to air roles and support requirements.
“The Saeqeh will be displayed at the next Kish Air Show, and we expect the aircraft to take off for its maiden flight very soon,” an IACI source said.
IACI conducted preliminary design work several years ago for a new advanced combat aircraft, but faced with mushrooming development costs of nearly $400 million it teamed up with IAMI to develop and promote a lightweight plane with clear potential for further military applications. IACI is bringing its avionics and design experience to the project and believes an enhanced military version could be launched as soon as next year.
By moving to develop the first Iranian military jet after successfully reverse engineering foreign aircraft, IACI has made a conscious decision to move from its former role to become a manufacturer of main military aeronautical platforms.
The Saeqeh will fly at 1.7 Mach, or about 2,083 kph. It will weigh approximately 4,700 kg. The Saeqe’s cockpit and avionics will be compatible with the display and other systems in advanced generation fighters, including the F-15, F-16, MiG-29, Rafale and Eurofighter. Systems will include embedded simulations of combat scenarios, simulated operation of weapons and self-defense systems and mission planning and debriefing capabilities.
IACI expects to replace approximately half of the US manufactured airframes that are more than 30 years old and far more expensive to maintain than a modern jet such as the Saeqeh. IACI also sees a strong market in Asia, and is likely to offer the aircraft to air forces operating 60’s era aircraft.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force keeps fully informed of the Saeqeh’s development, and we employ retired combat pilots to benefit from their experience and input as to future Iranian jet training needs,” IACI said.
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April 1, 2006 at 5:47 am