Internationale fighter ontwikkelingen

Gestart door Lex, 19/12/2015 | 16:32 uur

Harald

How F-35s Deployed To A Narrow Highway In California
https://www.twz.com/sea/how-f-35s-deployed-to-a-narrow-highway-in-california

The War Zone was on the scene for VMX-1's exercise Obsidian Iceberg, that served as a glimpse of what's to come in the Pacific.





Harald

Brazilian air force plans a new squadron of Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters

The Brazilian Air Force is considering a new squadron of Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters. According to an order issued on March 5, 2024, by the Brazilian Air Force General Staff (Emaer), a working group has been established to develop guidelines for activating the 1st/4th GAV Pacau Squadron at Anápolis Air Base (BAAN), one of the largest air bases in South America. The order discusses the reactivation of the Pacau Squadron in Anápolis, a unit many thought would remain disbanded in favor of the 1st/16th GAV - Adelphi Squadron, which ceased operations in 2016 when it was flying Embraer A-1 AMX tactical fighters.

Currently, the SAAB Gripen fighter is only operated by the 1st Air Defense Group of the Anápolis Air Base (BAAN). The 1st GDA is traditionally an air defense unit, specialized in interception, air superiority, and air dominance. However, it is envisaged that the Pacau Squadron might be deployed for air-to-ground missions, while the 1st GDA would maintain its traditional air-to-air combat profile.

In December 2023, the 1st Air Defense Group at Anápolis Air Base, which operates Gripen fighters, had seven aircraft, including the test aircraft 4100 performing trials from the Gripen flight test center at Embraer in Gavião Peixoto (SP) since 2020. Saab had agreed to a contract for a fleet of 36 aircraft with the South American country in 2013. As part of this transfer to the Brazilian Air Force, training was organized in partnership with Saab and the Swedish Air Force's Phoenix Squadron. Additionally, Swedish support groups are also present at Anápolis Base to assist the FAB in commissioning the Gripen E.

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a versatile, fourth-generation multi-role fighter aircraft developed by the Swedish aerospace company Saab. Featuring a delta wing and canard configuration, it offers exceptional agility and performance. The Gripen entered service with the Swedish Air Force in 1997 and has been adopted by several other countries. Known for its cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, and advanced avionics and systems, the Gripen can execute a variety of missions, including air defense, reconnaissance, and ground attack. Continuously updated since its production began in the late 1980s, the Gripen represents a contemporary solution for modern air forces looking for operational flexibility.

This initiative to strengthen Anápolis with the activation of a new squadron of F-39 Gripen highlights the strategic importance of this air base for the defense of Brazilian territory. It also reflects the versatility and advanced capabilities of the Gripen fighter, capable of adapting to various types of missions and thus enhancing the operational efficiency of the Brazilian Air Force.

https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_march_2024_global_security_army_industry/brazilian_air_force_plans_a_new_squadron_of_saab_jas_39_gripen_fighters.html

Harald

USAF Seeks NGAD Fighter Boost, Navy F/A-XX Investment Slows In New Budget

The Air Force and Navy appear to have prioritized their next generation fighter programs differently in the Pentagon's 2025 budget request.

https://www.twz.com/air/usaf-seeks-ngad-fighter-boost-navy-f-a-xx-investment-slows-in-new-budget


F-15EX Fleet To Be Cut Down To 98 Jets In New Air Force Budget

The USAF is still trying to get a handle on how many F-15EXs it actually wants, but how many it really needs is another question.

https://www.twz.com/air/f-15ex-fleet-to-be-cut-down-to-98-jets-in-new-air-force-budget

Sparkplug

F-35 Program Achieves Milestone C and Full Rate Production (eindelijk)

March 12, 2024

Earlier today, the Milestone Decision Authority, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Dr. William A. LaPlante, approved the Milestone C / Full Rate Production (MSC/FRP) of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft with the signing of an Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) after a meeting with the Defense Acquisition Board (DAB).

The F-35 achieved this milestone after considering the results from the F-35 Combined Initial Operational Test and Evaluation and Live Fire Test and Evaluation Report, System Development and Demonstration exit criteria, statutory/regulatory documentation compliance, future production strategy, and draft acquisition program baseline details. Proceeding to MSC/FRP requires control of the manufacturing process, acceptable performance and reliability, and the establishment of adequate sustainment and support systems.

The DAB, which met on March 7, 2024, was chaired by Dr. LaPlante, and is the department's senior-level forum for critical decisions concerning acquisition programs at the Department of Defense.

"This is a major achievement for the F-35 Program," LaPlante said. "This decision—backed by my colleagues in the Department—highlights to the Services, F-35 Cooperative Program Partners, and Foreign Military Sales customers that the F-35 is stable and agile, and that all statutory and regulatory requirements have been appropriately addressed. The F-35 Program is the premier system that drives interoperability with our allies and partners while contributing to the integrated deterrence component of our National Defense Strategy."

With this milestone, the program is now well positioned to efficiently produce and deliver the next generation of aircraft to meet the evolving needs of our services, partners, and FMS customers.

"I am very proud of our team, and this is a huge accomplishment!" said Lt. Gen. Mike Schmidt, Director and Program Executive Officer, F-35 Joint Program Office. "The F-35 enterprise has made significant improvements over the last decade, and we will always be driven to continuously improve sustainability, interoperability, and lethality so warfighters have the capability needed to fight and win when called to do so. Moreover, the Program and our great people can now focus on the future of the F-35 instead of the past."

In September 2023, a key gateway for MS C/FRP was achieved when F-35 Runs for Score in the Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) and initial trial validation were completed.

"DOT&E conducted analysis of the results from Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) and Live Fire Test and Evaluation and delivered a comprehensive, combined report as required by statute to inform the Milestone C / Full Rate Production decision. DOT&E also provided a separate annex that assessed post-IOT&E Block 4 operational testing of the 30P06 and 30P07 software." said Dr. Raymond D. O'Toole, Jr., Acting Director, Operational Test & Evaluation. "The Program is working to address DOT&E's findings and recommendations contained in the report. One of DOT&E's concerns is to continue to improve test infrastructure for support development and to ensure readiness to test of the upcoming Block 4 capabilities. This includes timely deliveries of the next iterations of F-35-In-A-Box for integration into the JSE."

Achieving MSC/FRP is important to the program, and it helps to validate the aircraft's capabilities for present and future partners of the F-35 enterprise.

To date, over 990 F-35 aircraft have been delivered to the U.S. Services, F-35 Cooperative Program Partners, and Foreign Military Sales customers.

The F-35 offers multi-mission capability, including strategic attack, suppression/destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD), offensive/defensive counter air, anti-surface warfare, strike coordination and reconnaissance, and close air support. It brings stealth, sensor fusion, and interoperability to enable access in contested environments and enhances situational awareness.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3704808/f-35-program-achieves-milestone-c-and-full-rate-production/
A fighter without a gun . . . is like an airplane without a wing.

-- Brigadier General Robin Olds, USAF.

Harald

EXCLUSIVE: F-35A officially certified to carry nuclear bomb

The designation marks the first time that a stealth fighter can carry a nuclear weapon, in this case the B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bomb.

The F-35A Joint Strike Fighter has been operationally certified to carry the B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bomb, a spokesman for the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) tells Breaking Defense.

In a statement, JPO spokesman Russ Goemaere said the certification was achieved Oct. 12, months ahead of a pledge to NATO allies that the process would wrap by January 2024. Certain F-35As will now be capable of carrying the B61-12, officially making the stealth fighter a "dual-capable" aircraft that can carry both conventional and nuclear weapons.

"The F-35A is the first 5th generation nuclear capable aircraft ever, and the first new platform (fighter or bomber) to achieve this status since the early 1990s. This F-35 Nuclear Certification effort culminates 10+ years of intense effort across the nuclear enterprise, which consists of 16 different government and industry stakeholders," Goemaere said. "The F-35A achieved Nuclear Certification ahead of schedule, providing US and NATO with a critical capability that supports US extended deterrence commitments earlier than anticipated.�"

.../...

https://breakingdefense.com/2024/03/exclusive-f-35a-officially-certified-to-carry-nuclear-bomb/?_ga=2.86643035.251398763.1709543617-1958275474.1666165906

Huzaar1

Nou als je minister van financien al zo uit zn ogen kijkt in een f35 is het wel feest ja.
"Going to war without France is like going deer hunting without your accordion" US secmindef - Jed Babbin"

Sparkplug

Singapore Adds F-35As To Expand Its Stealth Fighter Fleet (dit was te verwachten)

After committing to STOVL F-35Bs, Singapore will now buy conventional takeoff and landing F-35As as part of its modernization drive.

by Thomas Newdick | PUBLISHED Feb 28, 2024 1:04 PM EST

Singapore will add eight conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) F-35A stealth fighters to its existing order for 12 short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) F-35B variants. While Singapore had not previously ruled out the F-35A version, which offers various performance and cost advantages, it has now committed to a highly capable and versatile future fighter fleet that will comprise the F-35A, F-35B, and fourth-generation F-15SG — an advanced development of the F-15E Strike Eagle.

Singapore's Minister of Defense Dr. Ng Eng Hen said that the combination of F-35s will put the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) in the "premier league" of air arms. The 20-strong Joint Strike Fighter fleet will also start to replace the RSAF's aging but still-capable F-16C/D force. Speaking during a budget debate in parliament today, Dr. Ng said that the F-35As are expected to be delivered around 2030.

The decision to buy F-35As is part of increased investment in Singapore's armed forces, as defense spending grows by a factor of 2.5 percent in the 2024-25 financial year, reaching around $15 billion. The exact cost of the F-35A purchase has not been disclosed, as is typical for Singaporean defense procurements.


Lawrence Wong, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, sits in a U.S. Air Force F-35A on October 6, 2023, during a visit to Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Elias Carrero

.../...

https://www.twz.com/air/singapore-adds-f-35as-to-expand-its-stealth-fighter-fleet
A fighter without a gun . . . is like an airplane without a wing.

-- Brigadier General Robin Olds, USAF.

Harald

US Navy Seeks New Active Expendable Decoy To Protect Aircraft

The US Navy has issued an updated special notice seeking industry feedback for a new active expendable decoy to protect aircraft against guided missiles

The US Navy recently issued an updated Request for Solutions (RFS) notice, seeking to develop a freefall Radio Frequency Countermeasure (RFCM) decoy system.

The notice states that the service is interested in an Active Expendable Device (AED) that has broadband coverage and is capable of being used against networked sea-, air- and land-based Integrated Air Defense Systems (IADS) with coherent radars.

Furthermore, the notice states that, "the RFCM AED must prevent radar-guided munitions or their effects from damaging aircraft, and these devices shall have the ability to produce an optimal survivability solution against the most advanced threats."

.../...

https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/02/us-navy-seeks-new-active-expendable-decoy-to-protect-aircraft/



https://sam.gov/opp/705779f7002241e89dda1945024eb69c/view
TENDER
Freefall Radio Frequency Countermeasure (RFCM), Active Expendable Device (AED)

PURPOSE
This Request for Solutions (RFS) is issued seeking to develop a broad band, freefall Radio Frequency (RF) Countermeasure (CM) Active Expendable Device (AED) for use against networked sea-, air- and land-based Integrated Air Defense Systems (IADS) with coherent radars. The AED will replace GEN-X and provide an expanded capability with user programmable Electronic Warfare (EW) Digital RF Memory (DRFM) technology.  This approach will address current and future threats by offering both detection and threat defeat aspects of defensive EW in an expendable package compatible with the ALE-47/Common Carriage Upgrade. 

PROJECT OVERVIEW
Advanced Air-to-Air and Surface-to-Air RF guided threats are employing bands of the Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS) requiring RFCM with expanded frequency coverage and EMS agility.  RT-1489/ALE Generic Expendable (GEN-X) decoy, the existing DoN freefall RFCM, is based on 1980s technology that is: obsolete, out of production, limited in its capability, designed against an outdated threat list, not programmable/updateable, and in a 36mm round form-factor.  The ALE-47/Common Carriage aircraft CM Dispenser System (CMDS) upgrade is moving all expendable countermeasures to form-factor solutions commonly utilized by other services.

The RFCM AED must prevent radar-guided munitions or their effects from damaging aircraft, and these devices shall have the ability to produce an optimal survivability solution against the most advanced threats. Furthermore, aircrews require aircraft that can withstand engagements and the effects of threat weapon system munitions. Protecting aircrews and passengers from injury during enemy engagements is critical.

Harald

Hungary doubles down on Gripen: Saab secures order for four more fighters

Saab of Sweden secured a four-aircraft deal with Hungary, expanding their Gripen fleet and solidifying the partnership between the two nations. This announcement follows an existing contract for 14 Gripen C/D fighters, bringing Hungary's total to 18.

The agreement strengthens the long-standing defense partnership between Sweden and Hungary. This additional acquisition follows the initial deal in 2001 for 14 Gripen C/D jets, highlighting Hungary's continued confidence in the platform's capabilities. The newly ordered Gripen Cs boast advanced capabilities like advanced radar systems and beyond-visual-range air-to-air combat missiles, bolstering Hungary's air defense capabilities.

Looking beyond the initial delivery, the press release highlights Saab's commitment to providing comprehensive support and upgrades for the Hungarian Gripen fleet throughout its lifecycle. This could include maintenance, training, and access to future technology advancements, potentially extending the operational lifespan of the aircraft well beyond 2035. This long-term commitment fosters trust and ensures the Hungarian Air Force remains equipped with a capable and modernized defense system.

https://alert5.com/2024/02/25/hungary-doubles-down-on-gripen-saab-secures-order-for-four-more-fighters/

Harald

Philippines eyes Swedish Gripen as top contender for Multi-role Fighter Acquisition

The Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) announced today that it is finalizing an Implementing Arrangement (IA) with Sweden to facilitate the procurement of defense equipment. This announcement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two nations in June 2023, marking a significant step towards strengthening their defense cooperation.



The IA, scheduled to be finalized during a meeting in Sweden this March, will focus on streamlining logistics and procurement procedures for Philippine acquisition of Swedish defense materiel. This collaboration aligns with the Philippines' ongoing modernization program aimed at bolstering its armed forces' capabilities.

"This Implementing Arrangement signifies our commitment to further enhance our defense capabilities through strategic partnerships," stated the DND Secretary in the press release. "Sweden is a reliable partner with advanced technology and expertise, and this cooperation will undoubtedly contribute to the modernization of our armed forces."

However, one specific piece of defense equipment has emerged as a potential frontrunner: the JAS 39 Gripen multirole fighter aircraft. Sweden's interest in partnering with the Philippines on its modernization efforts goes back even further, with Ambassador Annika Thunborg discussing the Gripen with DND officials as early as August 2023. This consistent offer highlights Sweden's strong push for the aircraft, potentially reflecting its capabilities and alignment with the Philippines' requirements.

The upcoming IA meeting and continued partnership efforts pave the way for potential acquisition of Swedish defense equipment, like the Gripen. Both parties expressed interest in implementing the signed MOU and exploring financing options.

https://alert5.com/2024/02/19/philippines-eyes-swedish-gripen-as-top-contender-for-multi-role-fighter-acquisition/#more-98768

Harald

"I Would Love To Have More F-15EXs," Air Guard Boss Says

With F-15EX's operational debut coming soon, its unique capabilities have already made an impact on the Air National Guard's top officer.

The Air National Guard's top officer made it clear today during a roundtable with journalists at the Air Force Association's Warfare Symposium what value he sees in the F-15EX Eagle II and that he wants more of them.

Our Howard Altman asked Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, the Director of the Air National Guard, specifically about the future role of the F-15EX and the possibility of procuring more beyond the reduced number of 104 currently planned.

"So the F-15EX initial fielding is to the National Guard ... It is both a homeland defense platform, as well as a power projection platform. It is, I'm going to call it this way, the combat capability of an F-15EX is not an F 15E. It's actually much better than F-15E. The open mission system architecture, a separate computer from the OFP, the operational flight program computer, so the one that runs it, and also fiber that goes out across it. So high-speed data, high speed fiber, open mission system architecture. We can put our own operating system on there. We can integrate weapons, sensors— anything that you can think of, we can integrate on that rapidly. And we can do rapid reprogramming on that system without ever touching the OFP. That is a game changer when you think about modern day warfare."

"The other thing is it can take outsized weapons, so any long-range missiles, long-range weapons – JASSM-ERs – all those capabilities that are out there. With conformal fuel tanks, it has it has the ability to go long-ranges. So, longer ranges than even the F-15C... Those long-ranges allow us to deliver air superiority in a combat capable configuration over distances that we will see in future conflicts."

All these capabilities prompt questions as to how a fleet of just 104 jets will be able to properly supply them to commanders. Asked by Howard Altman about the possibility of procuring more F-15EXs, the Lt. General's enthusiasm for the idea was clear:

"I hope so. I mean, we have a capacity and a capability need out there. And so to get more and more fighter units recapitalized into the newer equipment, I would love to have more EXs."

.../...

https://www.twz.com/air/i-would-love-to-have-more-f-15exs-air-guard-boss-says

Sparkplug

Partners to decide on Meteor MLU by end of 2024

09 February 2024

by Gareth Jennings


A Meteor missile aboard a Swedish Gripen combat aircraft. The six partner countries are assessing a potential mid-life upgrade, with a decision to be made by the end of 2024. (Janes/Gareth Jennings)

The partner countries will decide before the end of 2024 on the scope and scale of a planned mid-life upgrade (MLU) to the MBDA Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM).

Answering questions in the House of Commons, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence (MoD) James Cartlidge said on 8 February that the UK and the five other partner countries of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden will decide on the path forward by the end of 2024.

"The UK, together with the five other Meteor partner [countries], continues to assess mid-life options for Meteor and expects to reach a formal decision on the way forward by the end of 2024," he said.

Details pertaining to the potential MLU have not been disclosed, but as noted by Janes Weapons: Air Launched , it could entail equipping the missile with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) seeker, and improving the propulsion system potentially through adaptive air intakes or variable geometry intakes. In addition, MBDA is assessing the integration of a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit for a ground‐attack capability for the Meteor.

The Meteor is integrated aboard the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Saab Gripen, and is to be carried by the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KF-21 Boramae also. As well as the six partner countries, the missile is in service or selected by Brazil, Egypt, Greece, India, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Qatar.

.../...

https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/partners-to-decide-on-meteor-mlu-by-end-of-2024
A fighter without a gun . . . is like an airplane without a wing.

-- Brigadier General Robin Olds, USAF.

Sparkplug

Mini Anti-Ship Cruise Missile That Fits Inside An F-35 Is On The Navy's Wish List

The Air Force is also looking for very similar weapons, which would be small in size but possess substantial range.

byJoseph Trevithick| PUBLISHED Feb 7, 2024 6:44 PM EST

The U.S. Navy is interested in acquiring a relatively low-cost and compact air-launched stand-off anti-ship weapon, four of which could be carried internally by certain variants of the F-35 stealth fighter. The U.S. Air Force has also laid out its own requirements for a similar-sounding air-launched munition, but that is geared toward more general air-to-ground strike missions.

Naval Air Systems Command put out a contracting notice for what it is currently calling the Multi-Mission Affordable Capacity Effector weapon system, or MACE, on February 2. This followed the Direct Attack Contracting Division of the Air Force life Cycle Management Center's Armament Directorate (AFLCMC/EBDK) issuing a separate notice about what it has dubbed the Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) on January 30.

.../...

https://www.twz.com/air/mini-anti-ship-cruise-missile-that-fits-inside-an-f-35-is-on-the-navys-wish-list
A fighter without a gun . . . is like an airplane without a wing.

-- Brigadier General Robin Olds, USAF.

Benji87

Citaat van: Sparkplug op 31/01/2024 | 22:29 uurVerwacht dat het Turkse ontwerp hoogstens vergelijkbaar is met de Zuid-Koreaanse KF-21. Beide landen zijn voor bepaalde technologie afhankelijk van het buitenland.

Kwam toevallig dit in nieuws voorbij vandaag.

https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/02/02/south-korea-to-start-mass-production-of-kf-21-fighter-jets/

Harald

https://www.upinthesky.nl/2024/02/02/turkije-wil-typhoon/

Turkije wil óók Eurofighter Typhoon

Turkije is nog steeds geïnteresseerd in de aankoop van 40 Eurofighter Typhoon-straaljagers, zo verklaarde een functionaris van het Turkse ministerie van Defensie gisteren. Het nieuws is opvallend aangezien de Verenigde Staten net de verkoop van F-16's aan Ankara hebben goedgekeurd.

In november gaf Turkije aan in gesprek te zijn met Groot-Brittannië en Spanje om Typhoons te kopen. Deze weg werd bewandeld nadat een deal rond de aanschaf van F-16's in de VS onzeker was geworden. Duitsland, een van de partners achter de Typhoon, was echter ook tegen de verkoop van het wapensysteem aan Turkije.

Vorige week heeft de regering van de Amerikaanse president Joe Biden het Amerikaanse Congres formeel op de hoogte gebracht van haar voornemen om door te gaan met de verkoop van 40 Lockheed Martin F-16's en bijna 80 moderniseringskits aan Turkije. Dit gebeurde een dag nadat Ankara de volledige ratificatie van het NAVO-lidmaatschap van Zweden had afgerond. Met dit nieuws leek de aanschaf van de Typhoon definitief van de baan. Aldus een anonieme functionaris van het Turkse ministerie van Defensie is niets echter minder waar: 'we hebben nog steeds interesse en we verwachten een positieve houding van het consortiumlid Duitsland aangaande dit onderwerp'.