Future of Portuguese Air Force 2014 – 2030

Hello dear people,

One of my most favorite air arms in Europe is that of Portugal. I have a long standing relation with this beautiful country and with it’s Air Force. The FAP looks a very different force nowadays when compared with that of the first year I visited it back in 1987 (when T-33/T-38’s flew from Beja, Gina’s from Montijo and the great A-7’s from BA5) :love-struck:

In the past few years the country was hit by a economical disaster, and now I would like to know what should be the future of this nations air arm. With the F-16 (MLU) as it’s backbone for many years to come, several other issues needs attention; Alouette III helicopters still soldier on, but are almost finnished. Used in various roles, the transit from Alouette to Merlin is practical impossible… the Alpha Jet is only flying in very limited numbers (I belief only seven are in flying condition) and needs to be replaced, one candidate could be the PC-21 (has been offered). Also, the C-130 (to be upgraded or not?) needs some way of being improved, or replaced by, as mentioned by some sources, the EMBRAER (K)C-390. Let’s talk….

Cheers