As someone pointed out, for this limited role, it may just be better to use UCAVs or maybe some of the newer supersonic trainers that can also be used in a light fighter role with a radar such as the Korean T/F-50, Russian YAK-130, Chinese J-15, EADS MAKO (if it ever gets developed) or the Italian M-346.

Although your drawing does look interesting….maybe a future advanced trainer/ligh fighter design…

—–JT—–

The Iranians are always comparing the performance of Saegheh with that of the F/A-18, or at least with the YF-17.

Being realistic, I would compare it more to what the F-20 would have been. Now if they can grow the Shafaq design into a true 5th gen fighter (as the Vityaz was supposed to be), then I would truly be impressed.

—–JT—–

What a shame, so much time, money and effort spent on this promising missile to date and now it’s gone.

—–JT—–

As an outsider, i dont think they do…not only the EF but any newer addition (in fact the whole MMRCA project). To be frank, i personally think that best route for IAF is 230+ MKI, speed up LCA, upgrade older machines, and start work on a 5th gen machine in collaboration with Russia or another foreign partner/s. If they must buy then Mig-35 is perhaps their best option due to the existing commonality and its ease of integration into IAF…perhaps Mig-29 could be upgraded narrow the gap between the two. However, it seems that indian political leadership has many other thoughts and not just the best interests of IAF.

I fully agree with this assessment. The aircraft they choose will be operational for a few decades. Why not upgrade what they currently have and then invest on the 5th Gen instead of 4 or 4.5 Gen aircraft. There is a lot of money to be invested in this RfP so put it to use in a next generation project instead.

—–JT—–

The US has a tendency to go after the most expensive developments! This 8-inch gun could definitely have been further explored to incorporate a 62-64 cal barrel, lighter weight shield with a more stealthy shape and make it available to many more platforms at a much reduced price. The AGS for the DDX is currently a monster turret and very expensive system. It is so heavy that very few ships can ever carry it. A new development of the 8-inch gun concept could have probably produced 95% of what the AGS will provide but with many more benefits.

—–JT—–

It’s beginning to look like poorer countries will have more options to have an effective helicopter force.

A combination of Ansat attack for dedicated attack/anti-tank/recon, plus some Mi-35 for performing attack/assault and Mi-17 for medium transportation (and even attack as they can also carry a nice weapon’s load) can make for an effective yet moderately priced helicopter force.

—–JT—–

Maaan…..I can’t wait until they show atleast an official artist impression. Reading RSM55 posts Got me excited (About the PAK-FA that is 😮 😀 ). Better not disappoint me.

Maybe this year’s MAKS will have something about the PAK-FA…

—–JT—–

Quoting Homer (Simpson), “…Finally!!”

http://en.rian.ru/russia/20070808/70574505.html

Hmm…I’m not holding my breath.

—–JT—–