How significant is the capabilities of the Blk 60 compared to
the Blk52+? If our forthcoming batch of the F16s can be upgraded to
the Blk52+ standard, with most if not all the stuff & systems,
to what extend can they measure up against the Blk60 currently
being offered to the RSAF. If the RSAF can upgrade all our vipers
to varying standards, eg. baseline level1 for all, then level 2 for
some of the D version, and finally level 3 for the last 20,
wouldn't it make more econmical sense than buying another 20 of the
Blk60s?
If we will to buy the Blk60s, it would make sense in terms of
logistics, training, and even maintenance. But I don't see any
incremental increase in our strike capabilities. Moreover, if the
RSAF is planning to replace the Vipers with the F-35, wouldn't that
create something like a Block obsolescene of the entire viper fleet
spread over a 10 year period, say from 2015~2025? Wasn't this one
of the reasons why we upgraded the Skyhawks in the first place,
when the RSAF just couldn't afford to replace the whole fleet of
A4s with new gen. of fighters???
My point is, would the other contenders be a better option than the
F16 Blk 60, with respect to the possible needs and requirements of
the RSAF 10~15 years from now? Can it perform the roles that were
envisaged for the other contenders, which ironically are all
twin-engined? As much as I like the Viper, I can't see the Blk60
suitable as a replacement for the remaining A4s. Give me the
Typhoon or the F15variant anytime. I believe they are more suitable
for a Hi-Lo mix.
Just my $0.02 worth. Eagerly awaiting the baptisms of fire coming
this way...
