According to a Flight International article dated February 14th,
Singapore is to launch a competition for a new advanced jet trainer
(AJT) to replace about 20 TA-4SU trainers based in Cazaux,
France.
The most likely contenders are Aermacchi M346, BAE Systems Hawk 128
and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) T-50. Following the AJT,
aircraft manufacturers expect another competition will be held to
pick F-5 replacements. The article extrapolates that "Singapore is
expected to consider the JSF against contenders such as the Saab
Gripen" and "If the T-50 wins the AJT competition, KAIs proposed
F-50 may also be considered."
Whether or not the Republic of Singapore Air Force will ever
consider short-legged lightweight fighters such as the Gripen and
the proposed F-50 depends on the force structure the RSAF wants to
build - a 'strategic' air force with long range fighter bombers, an
'army's flying artillery' dedicated to close air support or an
awkward compromise between the two.
Cheers,
Sunho
