I am neither a pilot or an avionics expert but here are my thoughts regarding this matter and I was hoping to get some feedback and start a debate. 1. Considering that the US airforce hasn't used the F-16 for about 4 years and that even the air national guard is in the process of retiring these aircraft from service leads me to believe that it is a fairly outdated Jet.
2. The F-18 Super Hornets (albeit great jets) cost about $10 million more than Su-30s. Considering our pilots have a longer history with Russian systems I wonder if it's a good idea to introduce a brand new platform into the IAF. Maybe someone with flight experience could shed some light on the training process related difficulties regarding this matter. I have always felt that the pilot's competency out weighed the capabilities of the machine itself. The example of the Israeli pilots running circles around the more superior arab Migs in the 67,72 and 81 wars comes to mind. 3. We already have manufacturing licenses for Russian systems. Why aren't we using those to create indigenous versions suited to our needs like the way the Israelis have done with the F-15s and F-16s?
4. I think HAL needs a swift kick in the pants. They have been faltering on their LCA program especially due to the Kaveri debacle and haven't even started with the MCA program. IMHO the aeronautical industry needs to be de-centralized and privatized. I bet there would be atleast 4-5 companies that would spring up creating a more competitive environment resulting in better products. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy about all the work HAL has done and the valuable lessons this process has brought about, I just think the Indian Aeronautical complex could be a lot more efficient and cutting edge like all the other high tech private sector players.
Lastly, I can't believe people are saying that the F-16 fighting falcons or the F18 super hornets are comparable to the F-22 Raptor. The Raptor is about 3-4 generations ahead of the F-16. It has stealth capabilities and one hell of a missile arsenal, the fact that the USAF now wants to replace the raptors with the F-35 is simply mind boggling.. of course this will never be for sale as long as the US holds the lead on Stealth Technology.
