UAEAF Desert Falcons

Hi All,

The UAE’s purchase of 80 Block 60 F-16’s is quite amazing. All the more remarkable as they are being purchased virtually “en bloc” given the short span of the delivery period (2004-2007). Looking at the equipment and weapons being designated for their use they will be the most capable Vipers ever.

My questions in this regard are:

* what are the strategic implications for the rest of the Gulf region given this massive introduction of such top-of-the-line combat aircraft?
* has the UAE the human and technological resources to optimise the deployment of such sophisticated aircraft and in such number; if not will it mean expatriate pilots and technicians?
* is a Block 60 or Block 60+ F-16 an affordable if not viable alternative to the likes of JSF, Rafale and Typhoon; if yes will it mean complicating the marketing efforts of these new types?
* is not the UAE being over-dependent on the US given the conditional nature of US military sales; if yes shoud the UAE not split the order with more Mirage 2000-9’s?

Your reactions should be most interesting!

Regards
SJohan