India’s Struggle to Modernize its Fighter Fleet: The Challenges and Choices Ahead

 India's plan to procure 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), a highly anticipated defense deal, remains uncertain. The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 31 fighter squadrons, well below the authorized 42, and needs more to face its two major adversaries.

The IAF has ordered nearly 200 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1 and Mk1A variants and has committed to 200 LCA Mk2s. However, nine years after the first IAF LCA squadrons were formed, only about 40 LCA aircraft are in service. Even with increased production to 24 aircraft per year, it will take time to meet the required numbers. India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is still over a decade away, and the aging MiG 21s are still in use. The Jaguars and Mirage 2000 fleets need to retire by around 2030. Despite the push for self-reliance, India will need to induct the 114 MRFA to bridge the gap.

The initial Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) process was limited to 36 Rafale jets due to technical reasons. The IAF has specified the operational requirements for these 114 aircraft.

A recent report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence highlighted delays in delivering the initial 40 LCAs to the IAF and suggested exploring the purchase of fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

MRFA Competition

India issued a Request for Information (RFI) in April 2018 for the 114 MRFA. Responses from contenders were received later in 2018. The Indian Navy was also asked to consider new fighter jets alongside this program. The Navy needs a twin-engine fighter, focusing on the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Dassault Rafale-M, likely opting for 26 Rafale-Ms.

Eight aircraft are competing for the IAF’s MRFA: Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Boeing F-15EX Eagle II, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Lockheed Martin F-21 (a variant of the F-16V customized for India), Mikoyan MiG-35, Saab JAS-39 Gripen E/F, and Sukhoi Su-35.

The next step involves the Defence Acquisition Council's (DAC) Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) and issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP). Even if the RFP is issued today, it could take over five years for the aircraft to be inducted. India's security establishment must make an early decision on the 114 aircraft import.

Big Ticket Assessment

Russia has proposed two aircraft: the MiG-35, which did not qualify in the earlier MMRCA selection, and the new Su-35. The Su-35, part of the Su-27/30 family, is not a viable option due to India's already significant fleet of similar aircraft and planned upgrades. The Russian industry is also preoccupied with domestic demands due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

If the Indian Navy selects the Rafale-M, the interest in the F/A-18 Super Hornet will decline. India has invested in the Rafale infrastructure and modifications, suggesting that acquiring more Rafale jets, potentially making 140 (114+26) in India, is logical.

The Saab JAS-39 Gripen E/F and Eurofighter Typhoon are strong contenders. The Gripen, with its GE 414 engine, and Eurofighter, with its extensive global presence, offer good options, although geopolitical factors and technology transfer levels will influence the decision.

US Influence in India's Aircraft Ecosystem

India has already integrated several US aircraft, including the Boeing P8I, Lockheed C-130J, and others. The upcoming purchase of General Atomics MQ-9B Predator Drones further solidifies US involvement. Evaluating the F-15EX and F-21 (an advanced F-16 variant) is essential.

The F-15EX, with its impressive payload and advanced features, is a heavy, costly option, adding complexity to India’s diverse fleet. The F-21, an advanced F-16, offers in-country production potential but faces public perception challenges due to Pakistan's use of F-16s.

Conclusion

India must make a one-time purchase of 114 aircraft, ideally the same type for the IAF and Navy, with significant technology transfer and in-country production. The US is eager to integrate into India’s fighter aircraft ecosystem, reflecting geopolitical closeness. Ideally, the US should offer the F-35, addressing technical barriers like the S-400 linkage.

Balancing India's aircraft mix to reduce dependence on Russian and Western suppliers while increasing indigenous production is crucial for long-term strategic autonomy.

Russian Spy Ships Allegedly Gathering Intel on Israel's Newest Submarine INS Drakon

 Following allegations of U.S. surveillance on China's Fujian aircraft carrier, there are now claims that Russia might be collecting critical intelligence on Israel’s latest submarine, INS Drakon. Naval analyst H.I. Sutton suggested that two Russian spy ships, the Sibiryakov and Wassili Tatischtschew, were likely monitoring Israel’s new submarine, which is currently undergoing sea trials in Kiel, Germany.

The submarine, constructed by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), has drawn significant attention. An analysis by Droxford Maritime indicated that Sibiryakov had been sent to observe the sea trials, while German media reported that Wassili Tatischtschew positioned itself off Kiel.

Russia has a history of deploying spy ships to gather intelligence on adversaries. For example, in April last year, Russia was accused of using a spy ship in Nordic waters to potentially sabotage underwater cables and wind farms. Since 2014, allegations have surfaced about Russian ships eavesdropping on North Sea facilities, with at least 50 vessels reportedly lingering near power facilities, oil and gas sites, and military training grounds during NATO exercises, according to public media investigations in Denmark, Finland, Sweden, and Norway.

Earlier this year, a Russian spy ship, the Kareliya, lingered near Japan’s coastline during a 10-day deployment. Spying during sea trials is common, as it allows navies to build an acoustic library of new submarines, monitor their performance, and gather data more easily than when the vessels are in active service.

INS Drakon, the latest and most advanced of Israel’s Dolphin II class attack submarines, features a large sail likely housing vertical launch tubes for strategic missiles. Once operational, it will be part of Israel’s nuclear deterrent, making it a prime target during its sea trials. Experts note that the marine pathways used are usually closed off to the public, making the alleged Russian surveillance more significant.

Droxford Maritime observed that while the Israeli submarine’s movements haven’t been reported, it was seen being fueled in early June, indicating ongoing trials. These claims echo similar accusations by China against the U.S. earlier this year. China alleged that a U.S. Air Force electronic intelligence aircraft was conducting surveillance on its newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, during its sea trials in May 2024.

Flight-tracking data from Hans M. Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists showed the U.S. spy plane conducting surveillance missions along the Chinese coastline on May 7, 9, 10, and 13. The operations, originating from Okinawa’s Kadena Air Base, involved long-haul flights over strategically important regions, including the Luzon Strait, the Paracel Islands, and the Pearl River Delta. The U.S. Defense Department did not disclose the specifics of these operations, but they were seen as attempts to gather intelligence on the Chinese carrier amid rising tensions between China and the West.

Russian Military Aircraft Breach Finnish Airspace

 On June 10, the Finnish Ministry of Defense reported a suspected incursion into Finnish airspace by a Russian military aircraft near Loviisa, a town less than 100 km from Helsinki. This day saw significant Russian air activity, including flights by several Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, escorted by Su-30SM, Su-27, and Su-33 fighters over the Barents Sea, Norwegian Sea, and Baltic Sea.

Additionally, German Eurofighter EF-2000 jets stationed in NATO's Latvia were dispatched to intercept two Su-27 fighters and an Il-20 Coot electronic reconnaissance aircraft operating near the Baltic states without prior flight plans or active transponders.

According to the Finnish Ministry of Defense, the Russian aircraft reportedly penetrated 2.5 km (1.55 miles) into Finnish territory before turning back, with the incursion lasting around two minutes. Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen emphasized the seriousness of any suspected territorial violation, noting that preliminary investigations are conducted in such cases.

Four days later, the investigation revealed the situation was more serious than initially thought. The Finnish Border Guard Agency, under the Ministry's jurisdiction, discovered that at least three additional aircraft were involved in the breach, totaling four aircraft: two bombers and two fighters. The investigation continues, and final results will be shared upon completion.

Interestingly, the Finnish Air Force, despite deploying four F/A-18 Hornets in Romania under NATO, did not initially respond to this incident. This was not addressed in the Ministry of Defense's first press release. However, back in August 2022, one of their fighter jets intercepted two MiG-31s that briefly entered Finnish airspace, coinciding with Russia's nuclear exercises with Belarus.

Historical Context:

Finland, once part of the Kingdom of Sweden for over 600 years, was ceded to the Russian Empire in 1809, gaining a special autonomous status as a grand duchy. After the Russian Empire's collapse in 1917, Finland declared independence. The Winter War of 1940 tested Finland's independence, with the Soviet Union annexing parts of the country despite Finland's strong defense. This left lasting concerns about potential future conflicts with Russia.

During the Cold War, Finland maintained its independence but could not strongly oppose the Soviet Union, a period known as "Finlandization." After the Soviet Union's fall, Finland joined the European Union and NATO, achieving full political freedom.

Finland has since prepared for potential conflict with Russia, evident in its defense strategy, which includes remote highways set up for fighter jets. This allows for quick mobilization of its air force, assuming regular air bases might be initial targets in a conflict. Finland's "total defense" strategy, according to the Financial Times, showcases a robust Finnish Air Force, currently operating F/A-18 fighter jets soon to be upgraded to advanced F-35 Lightning IIs.

Brazil Considers F-16 Purchase Amid Economic Constraints on Expanding Gripen Fleet

 Brazil is in discussions with the U.S. to potentially acquire 24 Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons, following Argentina's recent deal for used F-16 fighters. A top Brazilian official informed Janes in June that the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) aims to make a decision by the end of 2024. While this has not been confirmed by BulgarianMilitary.com, it aligns with the FAB’s strategy to replace its aging aircraft.

This development is unexpected, given Brazil’s 2014 agreement with Swedish company Saab for 36 Gripen E/F fighters, valued at $5.04 billion, with deliveries expected by 2027. This contract was expanded in 2022 to include four additional jets, bringing the total to 40.

Defense Minister José Múcio, speaking at the LAAD Defense and Security event in Rio de Janeiro, mentioned that the FAB needs more Gripen fighters and is considering this option. However, economic constraints are pushing the FAB to look for more cost-effective alternatives to replace its old Mirage and AMX jets. The FAB originally planned to nearly double its Gripen fleet but is now considering cheaper options due to financial limitations.

With the AMX fleet scheduled to retire by the end of 2025 and not enough Gripens to cover the gap, the FAB is exploring the acquisition of used F-16s. Brazil previously attempted to buy F-16s from the U.S. in the early 2000s, but the deal fell through. In 2002, the U.S. offered Brazil advanced F-16s along with AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles, the first such offer to a Latin American country.

At that time, the Pentagon’s policy was to avoid introducing advanced technology to the region to prevent military imbalances and arms races. However, the offer was made in response to Peru acquiring Russian BVRAAMs. Brazil, looking to update its Mirage III jets, considered several options, including the Dassault Rafale, Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, and Saab’s Gripen NG, ultimately opting against the F-16.

The discussion of acquiring second-hand F-16s has resurfaced. Despite lacking the advanced features of the Gripen-E/F, the F-16 remains a proven and versatile fighter jet, widely used globally.

The Gripen E/F offers advanced avionics, sensor fusion technology, and a state-of-the-art electronic warfare suite, providing superior situational awareness and threat detection capabilities compared to older F-16 models. Its AESA radar offers greater range, better target tracking, and improved resistance to jamming. The Gripen E/F also boasts better fuel efficiency, extended range, and a modern digital cockpit with enhanced pilot interfaces, surpassing the older F-16 designs.

Additionally, the Gripen E/F’s open architecture design allows for easier upgrades and integration of new technologies, ensuring it remains at the forefront of advancements in avionics, weapons systems, and software, a flexibility not as prevalent in older F-16 models.

US Military’s V-22 Osprey Fleet to Resume Full Operations by Mid-2025

 

The U.S. military's fleet of over 400 V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft is not expected to return to full flight operations until at least mid-2025, as stated by a Navy admiral during a House Oversight subcommittee meeting. Vice Adm. Carl Chebi, head of Naval Air Systems Command, which oversees Ospreys for the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, mentioned that a review assessing manning, training, and equipment adequacy will continue for another six to nine months. He assured lawmakers that findings from this comprehensive review will guide actions to ensure safe flight operations.

The Osprey fleet began a gradual return to service with flight restrictions in early March, three months after being grounded due to a fatal Air Force CV-22 crash off Japan's coast. This crash, which killed all eight airmen on board, led to a suspension of operations in early December.

The V-22 Osprey's unique capability to operate both as an airplane and a helicopter makes it ideal for aircraft carrier landings and special operations in challenging environments. The Marine Corps operates the majority of these aircraft, with the Air Force and Navy having around 50 and 30, respectively. Some Marine Ospreys have already resumed activity; for instance, ten aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 were sent to Hawaii for a training exercise in Australia, and others are being used in Sweden for Exercise Baltic Operations.

Despite the partial resumption, the Navy's CMV-22 fleet remains grounded for carrier support missions. Current restrictions prevent Ospreys from flying more than 30 minutes from a potential emergency landing site. Meanwhile, crews at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico are preparing to restore their operational capabilities, and other squadrons are also nearing readiness.

An investigation into the Air Force's CV-22 crash on November 29 is almost complete, with family briefings expected soon. The crash was attributed to a material failure previously unseen in the Osprey fleet.

Since their introduction over two decades ago, Ospreys have experienced several fatal accidents, including four incidents since March 2022, resulting in 20 service members' deaths. These issues led to fleet-wide groundings in 2022 and 2023 due to premature wear in the input quill assembly, which connects the engine to the proprotor gearbox.

Vice Adm. Chebi and Gary Kurtz, the program executive officer for anti-submarine, assault, and special mission programs, informed lawmakers that testing for a redesigned clutch is imminent. They anticipate the new clutch will be fielded by mid-2025.

Sweden Bolsters Baltic Defense: Procures Anti-Aircraft Guns for Assault Boats

Sweden is enhancing its maritime defense capabilities by seeking anti-aircraft guns for its Combat Boat 90 fleet, aiming to counter potential threats from drones and helicopters, particularly in the Baltic Sea region amid tensions with Russia.

The Swedish Ministry of Defense's procurement arm, FMV, has initiated a tender to acquire eight anti-aircraft guns, signaling a strategic move in response to growing concerns about security in the Baltic Sea. This procurement, valued at over $176 million, underscores Sweden's commitment to fortifying its amphibious units against aerial threats.

These anti-aircraft guns, to be integrated onto the Combat Boat 90 vessels, will provide enhanced protection across various naval theaters, including critical areas of interest. With a designated ammunition supply for 12 years, they offer a cost-effective defense solution against airborne threats, akin to Ukraine's defense strategy against Russian aggression.

As tensions escalate in the Baltic Sea, driven by Russia's ambitions in the region, Swedish Armed Forces Commander Micael Bydén has emphasized the strategic significance of key locations like Gotland. Positioned strategically in the Baltic, Gotland holds immense importance, prompting Sweden, now a NATO member, to maintain a military presence on the island.

Russia's recent moves to revise maritime borders, particularly around Kaliningrad and the Gulf of Finland, raise concerns of potential territorial disputes with neighboring NATO nations, further highlighting the need for enhanced maritime defense measures in the region. 

Ukraine Gets Green Light to Use F-16s for Strikes on Russian Territory

 Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen announced that Ukraine is authorized to use Danish-supplied F-16 fighter jets to strike military targets within Russian territory, provided these actions comply with the rules of war. Speaking on May 30 in Brussels, Rasmussen stressed that as long as the strikes focus on military installations, they remain within international law.

In July 2023, Denmark and the Netherlands formed a "fighter coalition" to support Ukraine, pledging to supply F-16s and offer essential training for Ukrainian pilots and technicians. This decision is part of a broader Western debate about removing restrictions on the use of Western weapons on Russian soil. Despite concerns from Washington and Berlin, Rasmussen emphasized that this initiative is not a "blank check" for indiscriminate attacks but aims to reduce Russia's offensive capabilities.

Russian Ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, warned that using Danish weapons on Russian territory could escalate the conflict uncontrollably. Nonetheless, Denmark and several other nations advocate for lifting these restrictions, asserting that Ukraine must defend itself against assaults.

Currently, eleven Western countries, including France, the UK, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Canada, have agreed to permit Ukraine to target military installations within Russian territory using their arms. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also endorsed this approach after discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, allowing Ukraine to use Western weapons "within international law" against Russian military bases.

The Danish F-16s, acquired in the 1980s, are advanced multirole fighter jets known for their versatility and sophisticated avionics. They can carry various weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The F-16s, powered by either Pratt & Whitney F100 or General Electric F110 turbofan engines, achieve speeds over Mach 2 and have a combat radius of about 340 miles with internal fuel, extendable with external tanks and aerial refueling.

Earlier this week, Belgium announced it would supply Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets, with the first deliveries expected this year. This brings the total number of F-16s committed to Ukraine to 85, including contributions from the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. Ukrainian pilots are currently training in the USA, Denmark, and Romania to operate these jets.

Sweden Donates AEW&C Aircraft to Ukraine, Enhancing F-16 Capabilities Amid Threats from Russian MiG-31BM

In a major and unexpected move, Sweden has announced it will supply Ukraine with two Saab 340 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft as part of a new SEK 13.3 billion ($1.25 billion) military aid package. This aid marks Sweden's largest support package to date, aiming to bolster collective air defense capabilities. The announcement came on May 29, when the Swedish government detailed its "Military Support Package 16," with the Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft, also known as the S 100D Argus or ASC 890, being the central component.

The Swedish Ministry of Defense stated that these aircraft would provide Ukraine with a new capability for airborne radar reconnaissance and combat control against air and sea targets, significantly enhancing Kyiv's long-range detection and targeting abilities. Equipped with advanced Erieye radars based on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, these aircraft will revolutionize Ukraine’s surveillance capabilities.

Currently, the Swedish Air Force operates only two of these sophisticated surveillance planes. The aid package indicates that one or both of these planes will be transferred to Kyiv, temporarily reducing Sweden’s AEW&C capability. To address this, Stockholm will expedite the acquisition of an additional Saab GlobalEye platform and accelerate the delivery of two units already on order, with the first new aircraft expected by 2027.

Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pal Jonson, noted that sending the planes followed intensive discussions with coalition countries and emphasized that the ASC 890 aircraft would significantly bolster Ukrainian air defense. These advanced aircraft will complement the F-16 fighter jets to be supplied by Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, forming a robust air force coalition for Ukraine. The timeline for the delivery of the ASC 890 aircraft has not been specified.

AEW&C Aircraft for Ukraine

The deployment of these AEW&C aircraft holds significant strategic value. They offer extensive overhead surveillance, crucial for detecting low-flying threats like Russian drones and cruise missiles that often evade conventional radar systems. The Saab 340 AEW&C will play a vital role in coordinating F-16 fighter operations by detecting, prioritizing, and guiding targets for interception, thus enhancing Ukraine's defense posture.

Valerii Romanenko, a leading researcher at the National Aviation University of Ukraine, emphasized the transformative impact of these aircraft, highlighting their ability to unlock the full potential of the multi-role F-16 fighters. The Saab 340’s integration with the NATO-standard Link 16 datalink communications system ensures seamless coordination with allied air defense systems, providing a comprehensive air defense picture and targeting data to compatible systems both airborne and on the ground.

Russian Threats and AEW&C Vulnerability

Despite their operational advantages, AEW&C systems are vulnerable to hostile actions. Earlier this year, the Russian Air Force lost two Beriev A-50 AWACS planes to Ukrainian missile attacks, underscoring the strategic importance and susceptibility of these aircraft. The Saab 340 AEW&C, with a detection range of up to 450 km, would need to operate within Ukrainian airspace to be effective, making them targets for Russian MiG-31BM and Su-57 fighters armed with R-37 air-to-air missiles, which have a range of 300 kilometers.

While the MiG-31BM presents a detectable threat, the Su-57’s advanced stealth capabilities pose a significant detection challenge. Additionally, the R-37M missiles are exceedingly difficult to evade. The Mikoyan MiG-31BM interceptors near the Russia-Ukraine border extend the threat radius across Ukrainian airspace, often forcing Ukrainian fighter pilots to abort missions. The relatively slower and less agile Saab 340 is more vulnerable compared to the four-engine A-50, which can reach higher speeds and altitudes.

Conclusion

The introduction of Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft to Ukraine’s military will significantly enhance its surveillance and defense capabilities. However, these gains come with increased vulnerability to advanced Russian fighter jets and missile systems. The balance of power in the region will be closely monitored as these developments unfold. 

Global Advances in Sixth-Generation Fighter Jets: Emerging Technologies and International Collaboration

 Most fighter jets in service worldwide belong to the 4th and 4.5th generations, with over 1,500 fifth-generation fighters currently operational. Numerous fifth-generation aircraft programs are now integrating sixth-generation technologies, which are still developing and are expensive due to their cutting-edge nature. These advancements include enhanced communications, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and extensive data sharing across platforms. A global look at the efforts to develop sixth-generation fighter aircraft reveals various international collaborations.

Many nations, unable to fund these expensive programs independently, are forming consortiums. The F-35 program exemplifies such partnerships. Some countries aim to enhance their defense industries and reduce reliance on American programs. The Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), involving Italy, Japan, and the UK, is a notable example.

The term "generation" in jet fighters refers to stages in design, performance, and technological evolution, though there are no official definitions. Understanding the fifth and sixth generations is crucial.

Fifth-Generation Fighters: The fifth generation began with the F-22 Raptor in 2005, designed for a network-centric combat environment. These fighters have advanced low-observable features, multifunction AESA radars, and integrated sensors for superior situational awareness. Key features include advanced electronic warfare systems, stealth technology, thrust vectoring for enhanced maneuverability, and internal weapon bays to maintain low radar visibility. Examples include the F-35, Russia's SU-57, and China's Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-31.

Sixth-Generation Technologies: These include advanced networking, AI, data fusion, cyber warfare capabilities, and modular designs allowing rapid upgrades. New stealth airframes, high-capacity networking, and integration with various platforms are expected. The Tempest program, led by the UK, Italy, and Sweden, exemplifies these technologies, including AI-supported operations and advanced radar systems.

Global Collaborations: The GCAP aims to merge efforts from the UK, Japan, and Italy to develop a sixth-generation fighter, combining the BAE Systems Tempest and Mitsubishi F-X programs. Development is set to start in 2025, with service induction around 2035. Challenges include harmonizing capabilities across partner nations and ensuring cost-effectiveness.

US NGAD Program: The USAF's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program aims to succeed the F-22 Raptor with a family of systems, including manned and unmanned aircraft, expected to be operational by the 2030s.

Chinese and Russian Programs: China is advancing its sixth-generation aircraft development, aiming for completion by 2035. Russia, despite the incomplete operationalization of the Su-57, is also pursuing sixth-generation technology, emphasizing AI and automation.

Overall, the development of sixth-generation fighter jets is marked by international collaboration, cutting-edge technology integration, and the aim to maintain air superiority in future combat environments.

Saab Gripen Engages in Rare Dogfights with F-35 in Preparation for Potential Confrontation with Russian Fighters

 In an unusual encounter, Saab Gripen fighter jets engaged in simulated aerial combat, or "dogfights," with F-35 stealth jets to prepare for potential confrontations with Russian Su-35 and Su-30 fighters. This joint exercise between Swedish JAS-39 Gripen and Danish F-35 aircraft showcased the advanced capabilities of Western fighter aircraft in countering Russian Aerospace Forces.

The Gripen-E, known as a force multiplier for NATO's air fleet, presents a significant threat to Russian fighters, despite its lack of stealth. Equipped with advanced technology such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and infrared search and track (IRST) systems, the Gripen-E can effectively engage Russian aircraft while remaining agile and versatile.

The collaboration between Gripen and F-35 aircraft signifies mutual cooperation between neighboring countries, aimed at enhancing joint fighting capabilities. By combining the F-35's data processing capabilities with the Gripen's mass-production advantage, a potent "radar and missile truck teaming" tactic is proposed, allowing Gripen to release missiles at targets identified by the F-35 while leveraging its stealth capabilities.

Russia's weaknesses in Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) further exacerbate the advantage of Western aircraft. With plans underway to revitalize defense industries in Europe and the US, including the development of advanced missiles like the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), Western forces are gearing up to counter the threat posed by Russian fighters effectively.

Through strategic collaborations and technological advancements, Western air forces are preparing to confront Russian fighters with confidence and efficiency.

Sweden to consider Gripen Upgrade-------------Defense News

HELSINKI — Sweden’s government is expected to examine in the spring an Armed Forces Command (AFC) proposal covering a possible $5 billion upgrade for the Air Force’s 100 JAS Gripen multirole fighters.

The Ministry of Defense (MoD) has sought a cost appraisal from Saab, although the company says that it has not yet submitted a formal costing to the government.

The Gripen upgrade proposal was contained in the AFC’s proposition to the government in March 2011. This outlined how Sweden’s Air Force and air defenses could best be developed after 2020. The AFC’s submission noted that a decision on the Gripens was needed in order to plan for either upgrading or replacing the aging aircraft, adding that funding for a new project should begin to be incorporated into the annual defense budget no later than 2015.

The AFC is proposing to upgrade and develop an E/F version of the Gripen to ensure the fighter maintains its technological development capability and continues to operate up to 2040, and possibly beyond.

Avionics, sensors and radar will form a key part of any upgrade, as will improving the aircraft’s weapons-carrying capability and fuel tank capacity. Some 20 possible new configurations for a Gripen E/F version are being examined by Saab, the AFC and FMV, Sweden’s defense materials central procurement agency.

The upgrade proposal is regarded as a more cost-efficient option than funding a new fighter replacement program. The AFC advocates that the Air Force’s stock of C/D version Gripens be upgraded on a phased basis to spread the total cost over a five- to 10-year budgetary period.

The AFC views the impending government decision, which it anticipates will be made in March, as the most critical funding issue facing Swedish defense. A significant factor will be the AFC’s improved working relationship with government. This was underlined in 2011 when the MoD approved $900 million in new funding to strengthen the attack and tactical helicopter capability of the Air Force and Army by acquiring 15 Sikorsky Black Hawks.

India Hopes To Unveil Fighter Deal in 2 Weeks

NEW DELHI — India hopes to unveil within two weeks the winner of a $12-billion fighter jet deal for which France’s Dassault and the Eurofighter consortium are on a final short list, the air force said Jan. 17.

“Right now we have to do the selection for who is going to be the short-listed vendor,” Indian Air Force chief N.A.K. Browne said in New Delhi. “I am hopeful that in another two weeks time, we will be able to short list the name,” Browne told reporters on the sidelines of a military function, the Press Trust of India news agency reported.

The contract is one of the biggest under consideration in the global defense aviation industry at the moment.

The air force chief said final commercial negotiations would only start after India announced the lowest bidder.

Officials say “life-cycle” maintenance costs of each plane will determine the winner of the deal. The contract is for the outright purchase of 18 combat aircraft with another 108 to be built in India with options to acquire more.

India last April cut out U.S. bidders Boeing and Lockheed Martin as well as dropping Sweden’s Saab AB and the Russian makers of the MiG 35 from the race.

Such a large order attracted intense lobbying during visits to India last year by U.S. President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

India, the biggest importer of military hardware among emerging nations, issued the request for proposals in 2007 and trials of aircraft from the six companies competing for the deal began a year later.