“Ja Worsley – mate I heard that the MdB were only looking at having the AF-1’s for a total of 11 years after which they would seek a modernday equivilant (possibly an armed varient of the USN’s T-45’s). If they were intent on keeping them longer, why didn’t they look at buying the New Zealand A-4K’s? Even the TA-4K’s could have been used on the A-12 considering the problems the MdB have with the trainer varients operating off the carrier.
As for the P-16’s are they still flying off the carrier? I’ve not seen any pics of them lately (I know they have been undergoing modernisation), nor have I heard any news about them lately.
Also do you happen to have any decent pics of the P-95’s? I love those things, armed with rockets they make a good close in MP aircraft.
Finally have you heard any news on the progress of the new Argentine carrier, reports I heard a few months ago stated that they were looking for a carrier in the 25K ton class that would be able to take their equipment that they have now and use aboard as well as opening the posibility for future Naval aircraft aquisitions.”
Hi mate, well i say to you that the AF-1s will be in service for much more than eleven years. As I mentioned before, the Navy is looking for an upgrade at the same level of FAB fighters (F-5 and AMX) and the life service could be extended to 20-25 years. It is also a very good option to buy RNZAF Skyhawks to increase the numbers of serviceable aircraft, including, who knowws, to create a new squadron.
Well, the P-16 is now a piece of museum, it was retired from service almost 10 years ago. In the early 90´s there was a plan to upgrade the fleet with new avionics and engines with a canadian company. One was already upgraded, but, lack of funds was the reason for the failure of this program. There is one P-16 as a gate guard in Santa Cruz AB in Rio de Janeiro attached to a catapult simulating a cat shot, very interesting.
I will try to find a good P-95 pic and send it to you, ok? FAB is purchasing 12 P-3 aircraft to increase the number of maritime patrol aircraft, but, in my opinion this role should be addressed to the navy.
Regarding the Argentine aircraft carrier, i don´t think that this is gonna happen, first, because there is no carrier available for sale. I don´t think in near future, the Argentinian government will have money to develop one or buy one from US (as far as i know, the only country that has carriers availble for sale). Today the Argentinian AF are putting planes on storage due to alck of funds to operate, including the “new” A-4AR fightinghawk.
The Argentinian navy pilots trains regularly on A-12 São Paulo.
Regards
Sign In
