The Big MMRCA fight ~ F16 Block70/ Saab Gripen E / Mig 35 for INDIAN AIRFORCE 90+ jets

After securing a deal of 36 Rafale Fighters with France, India is again on the look out for another MMRCA jet to replace its ageing fleet of Mig21s & other old russian variants\

SAAB is as relentless as it gets & is fighting hard since it lost out to Rafale & others in the previous MMRCA deal. But with economic constraints, INDIA decided to play a "wait & watch" policy & went on ahead with a 36 nos of Rafales.

As a result the deficient 90 jets would have to be met in another tender of MMRCA.The Current Modi regime  has fared tremendously with some quick defence deals with the latest one in Goa to clinch S400 airdefence systems, Kamov Ka226T helicopters & some 4 nos Next gen Frigates, is again back with a revised aquisation plan & as a result a request proposal was formulated & put forth for fighter jet manufacturers to respond to.

Lockheed Martin was the first to respond to the proposal request & has pushed hard for F16 Block 70, the most advanced F16 by transferring its production line from USA to INDIA. 

Mig35 which lost fight in the previous MMRCA fight to rafale is also in the fray.

Let us give you a Preview of the 3 contenders for the high voltage MMRCA jet deal.



SAAB GRIPEN E


Gripen E is an enhanced version of the Gripen C/D multi-role aircraft. The new fighter aircraft, whose initial delivery is scheduled for 2018, will replace the Swiss Air Force's fleet of Northrop F-5E/F Tiger. Saab performs modifications and related construction works for Gripen E by using components supplied by Swiss companies.
Saab started construction of the pre-production Gripen E test aircraft, designated as 39-8, in July 2013. Initial construction works involve assembly of the aircraft's front fuselage, while the payload mounting works are carried out by RAUG.
New components being integrated with the Gripen E were tested and proved in the Gripen 39-7 E/F demonstrator programme, with the test aircraft having flown for more than 250 hours in Sweden, the UK, India and Switzerland since 2008. The testing of the Gripen E is being overseen by Armasuisse.
A Gripen E aircraft fitted with new sensor IRST (Infra Red Search and Track) completed its maiden flight in April 2014. The first test aircraft was rolled out in May 2016.
The Gripen E has an overall length of 15.2m, wingspan of 8.6m, and maximum takeoff weight of 16,500kg. The maximum speed of the aircraft is Mach 2 at high-altitude, while the speed at low -altitude is 1,400km/h.
The one seater aircraft features ten pylon stations, which enable it to carry reconnaissance pods, weapons and external fuel tanks. Its turnaround time is ten minutes in air-to-air configuration and 20 minutes, while carrying weapons for air-to-ground combat.The aircraft's internal fuel tanks with a combined capacity of 3.4t are approximately 40% larger than those of its former version. The increased volume is made possible by moving the landing gear from the fuselage of the aircraft out to the inner wings.
The Gripen E features a digital cockpit with three large multi-functional displays (MFD) including a few 3D screens. The cockpit also features a hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) which provides superior situational awareness for the pilot.
The air-to-air missiles on the Gripen E include infrared-guided short range IRIS-T missile, and the Meteor missile, which is a beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM). The aircraft also has the flexibility to be fitted with Sidewinder and A-Darter missiles to replace the IRIS-T, and the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) missile to replace the Meteor. It can further be fitted with long range weapons such as R-Darter and Derby, and short-range weapons such as ASRAAM and Python.
The Gripen E can also be integrated with a number of air-to-surface weapons including unguided Mk82, Mk83 and Mk84 bombs, laser-guided bombs such as GBU-12, GBU-16 and GBU-10, and advanced bombs such as GBU-49 and GBU-39. Air-to-surface missiles such as RBS15F ER, TAURUS KEPD 350, AGM-65 Maverick, and MBDA's dual-mode Brimstone (DMB) can also be integrated into the Gripen E.
The aircraft features a 27mm all-purpose Mauser BK27 high velocity gun providing both air-to-air and air-to-surface attack capability. It is also equipped with a missile approach warning (MAW) system and is capable of carrying more chaff packets and flares compared with similar aircraft, enhancing its survivability.
The Gripen E features Selex's ES-05 Raven active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system. Fitted on a swashplate at the nose of the aircraft, the radar provides an angular field of view of 100° and look behind capability.
The passive Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor system fitted to the aircraft is the Skyward G supplied by Selex. It is also mounted on the nose of the aircraft and does not emit signals. The aircraft is further fitted with a passively listening advanced electronic warfare (EW) system.
Rafael's Litening III Laser Designation Pod (LDP) is fitted to the aircraft for attacking ground targets using laser-guided bombs. The LDP also integrates a forward looking infrared (FLIR) sensor and a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera.
The Gripen E can be optionally fitted with different pod systems, including Saab's own Modular Reconnaissance Pod System (MRPS), Rafael's Reccelite and Thales' digital joint reconnaissance pod (DJRP).
The aircraft can be fitted with regular radios, Havequick/SATURN frequency hopping secure radio, long-distance satellite communication systems, including the Link 16 for wide-area command and control (C2), which is compatible with FLORAKO radar system.
It is also fitted with a ground data link called ROVER, which provides communication to a Forward Air Controller (FAC) or Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) on the ground.
The Gripen E is driven by General Electric's (GE) F414G turbofan engine rated at 22,000lb (98kN). It features a new high-pressure turbine and a new six-stage, high-pressure compressor.
GE was awarded a $250m contract by the Government of Switzerland in December 2011 to supply the engines for the Gripen E. The aircraft's engine and design enable it to fly at supersonic speed without using an afterburner, saving more fuel and enabling it to stay in the air longer.

General characteristics
  • Crew: 1 (2 for JAS 39D)
  • Payload: 5,300 kg (11,700 lb)
  • Length: 14.1 m (46 ft 3 in); two-seater: 14.8 m (48 ft 5 in)
  • Wingspan: 8.4 m (27 ft 7 in)
  • Height: 4.5 m (14 ft 9 in)
  • Wing area: 30.0 m² (323 ft²)
  • Empty weight: 6,800 kg(14,990 lb)
  • Loaded weight: 8,500 kg (18,700 lb)
  • Max. takeoff weight: 14,000 kg (31,000 lb)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Volvo RM12 afterburning turbofan
    • Dry thrust: 54 kN (12,100 lbf)
    • Thrust with afterburner: 80.5 kN (18,100 lbf)
  • Wheel track: 2.4 m (7 ft 10 in)
Performance
Armament

Lockheed Martin F16 BLOCK 70(F16 IN SuperViper)

The F-16IN Super Viper is a unique new fighter sharing a heritage with the world's only fifth generation fighters – the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter and the F-22 Raptor. Evolutionary integration of fifth generation technologies makes the F-16IN the most advanced fourth generation fighter in the world today.
This ultimate fourth generation fighter is tailored exclusively to meet or exceed all of India’s Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirements. The F-16IN is the right choice for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and is ready for integration into India’s infrastructure and operations now.
The ability of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics to incorporate the latest technologies into the F-16IN is the key to expanding mission roles and improving combat capability, therefore creating the most effective multi role fighter today. With a robust upgrade capacity and the continuous insertion of technology, the F-16IN can be readily equipped with emerging capabilities throughout its lifecycle.
The Super Viper has the most advanced technologies and capabilities available today on the international market. It is truly the ultimate fourth generation fighter with all it brings to the battlefield.
Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar
The Northrop Grumman APG-80 AESA radar is the only AESA operational in the international market today. This revolutionary all-weather, precision targeting sensor has been exported by the United States government and is defending a sovereign nation today; no other MMRCA competitor can make that claim. The APG-80 AESA radar provides outstanding situational awareness and detection; ultrahigh-resolution synthetic aperture radar mapping, fully interleaved modes of operations with automatic terrain following; and air-to-air tracking of multiple targets.
Net-Centric Warfare Capability
The fusion of net-centric operations and onboard data provides a total battle space picture and optimizes mission accomplishment. The F-16 was the first multi-role fighter to incorporate a data link capability, and the IAF's Operational Data Link (ODL) can be integrated onto the F-16IN when available, ensuring interoperability with other IAF aircraft. Data integrates through all phases of the mission – from mission planning, navigation, communication and target prosecution to return to base – transforming the pilot from an aircraft system manager to a tactician.
Modern, Full-Color, All-Digital Glass CockpitPilots receive easy-to-interpret information via the all-digital cockpit and helmet -mounted cueing system. The large color displays are capable of fusing data from on- and off-board sensors, reducing the workload and enabling the pilot to focus on the mission.
Advanced Survivability Features
The low radar signature of the F-16IN reduces detection by enemy radars. Its single-engine design has smaller infrared and visual signature than twin-engine fighters. The internal electronic warfare and towed decoy systems, provided by Raytheon, avoid or defeat the most advanced threats. Raytheon's combat-proven EW systems are deployed on F-16 aircraft worldwide. Superior agility and excellent pilot situational awareness reduce vulnerability to attack, while critical systems redundancy and shielding enhance survivability. 
Enhanced High Thrust EngineThe F-16IN offers the highest thrust engine in the competition, the General Electric F110-132A. It has 32,000 pounds of thrust with an unprecedented record of safety, reliability, maintainability and durability.The F110 incorporates the latest technology, including full authority digital engine control, for maximum fuel efficiency and performance.
Safety, Reliability and MaintainabilityThe F-16IN is the most reliable, maintainable and safest multirole fighter in the world . . . based on more than 13 million flight hours in peacetime and combat operations. Also, our support approach provides the lowest life-cycle cost and is consistent with existing IAF maintenance practices.
Proven Combat and Operational Effectiveness
  • Over 400,000 combat hours
  • More air-to-air victories (72-0)
  • Over 100,000 combat missions flown
  • Over 2,200,000 ordnance delivered in combat
  • Over one million operational sorties in support of the Global war on Terror
Lockheed Martin understands that meeting the specific needs of each partner, the company insures that the F-16 maintains an unmatched record of program performance and mission success. India’s partnership with Lockheed Martin can provide access to the highest technology, opportunities for technology co-development, low-risk licensed production, transfer of technology, and opportunities for extensive long-term business. The Super Viper facilitates a key strategic partnership with the United States and the U.S. Air Force including joint training, logistical and operational concepts.
Also, Lockheed Martin has a proven history of successful partnerships. The F-16 is the fighter of choice for 24 nations with 52 follow-on buys, including successful international licensed manufacturing of 928 aircraft. Lockheed Martin’s worldwide industrial partnership success is unsurpassed by anyone and includes these accomplishments:
  • Establishment of four highly successful international F-16 manufacturing lines
  • Demonstrated ability to transfer advanced technology successfully
  • Over $37 billion in offsets realized by 40 countries
  • Establishment of indigenous international support systems
  • Joint technology development for international markets
.

MIKOYAN MIG-35
Russia’s RSK-MiG has completed an initial batch of pre-production versions of the Mikoyan MiG-35 Fulcrum-F multirole fighter. The company is set to deliver the jets to the Russian defense ministry for flight-testing this summer.
“We have completed the first phase of this work—the Ministry of Defense has examined and approved the design,” said RSK-MiG general director Sergei Korotkov in a March 17 statement. “We are following the schedule specified in the contract that we signed with the Defense Ministry. Today the plane, at this location, is undergoing all stages of assembly. It will be completed later this year and delivered to the customer for trials in the summer.
The MiG-35 is an advanced derivative of the original MiG-29. While the airframe is similar, the aircraft is practically a new design under the hood. Compared the to original Fulcrum, the MiG-35 adds a completely new fly-by-wire control system, a lighter airframe, more fuel capacity, more efficient engines and thrust-vectoring nozzles. Moreover, the Russians are developing single and two-seater versions of the jet based on the same outer mold line to maximize commonality.
More importantly, the MiG-35 will add a completely new avionics suite. The new jet will incorporate Russia’s first operational fighter-mounted active electronically scanned array radar—called the Zhuk-MA. The radar is able to track fighter-sized targets at ranges greater than 85 nautical miles.
The MiG-35 will also be equipped with a unique optical locator system (OLS)—which is a passive air-to-air electro-optical sensor that operates in both visual and infrared wavelengths.  The Russians believe that the OLS sensor will be useful in countering stealthy aircraft like the F-22 and F-35. The MiG-35 will also incorporate a powerful electronic warfare suite—an area where the Russians excel.
RSK-MiG—which falls under the aegis of the United Aircraft Corporation alongside arch-rival Sukhoi—hopes to recapture some the Mikoyan design bureau’s old glory with the new advanced MiG-29 derivative. RSK-MiG’s Fulcrum product line has been overshadowed by Sukhoi’s larger and more capable Flanker series in the years since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The MiG-35 might be the RSK-MiG’s last hope of regaining some of its lost market share on the international fighter market.
General characteristics
  • Crew: 1 or 2
  • Length: 17.3 m (56 ft 9 in)
  • Wingspan: 12 m (39 ft 4 in)
  • Height: 4.7 m (15 ft 5 in)
  • Wing area: 38 m2 (409 ft2)
  • Empty weight: 11,000 kg (24,250 lb)
  • Loaded weight: 17,500 kg (38,600 lb)
  • Max. takeoff weight: 29,700 kg (65,500 lb)
  • Powerplant: 2 × Klimov RD-33MK afterburning turbofans
    • Dry thrust: 5,400 kgf, 53.0 kN (11,900 lbf) each
    • Thrust with afterburner: 9,000 kgf, 88.3 kN (19,840 lbf) each
Performance
Armament
  • Guns: 1× 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon, 150 rounds
  • Hardpoints: 9 total (8× under-wing, 1× centre-line) with a capacity of 7,000 kg
  • Rockets: S-8, S-13, S-24, S-25L, S-250 unguided and laser-guided rockets
  • Missiles:
  • Bombs:
    • Guided:
      • KAB-500L: 500 kg laser-guided bomb
      • KAB-500T: 500 kg TV-guided bomb
    • Unguided:
      • FAB-250: 250 kg bomb
      • FAB-500: 500 kg bomb
      • ZAB-500 fuel-air explosive Bomb
Avionics
  • Phazotron Zhuk AE AESA radar (or other members of the Zhuk radar family)
  • NII PP OLS-UEM optical location station.
 .
So, the upcoming days are going to be full exciting as each contenders would be throwing up mouth watering proposals like the SAAB has already given to include GAN based radar with developing INDIA's indigenous fighter LCA TEJAS.
The Govt of INDIA has to decide the best fighter to give a upper hand to its airforce which would be facing competition from F16s,JF17s of PAKISTAN & J10B,J20,J31s from PLAF, & only time can tell which of these 3 earn the right to wear the IAF colors.

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