(Franco Iacch)
31/03/16

http://www.difesaonline.it/mondo-militare/il-destino-di-f-15-f-16-e-f-18-%C3%A8-nelle-mani-di-israele-e-india

The fate of three American icons, the F-16 Fighting Falcon (opening photo), the Boeing F / A-18 Hornet and the F-15 Eagle is in the hands of India and Israel. Born in the late '70s as supplements to low-cost air superiority fighter F-15 and missile platform F-14 Tomcat, F-16 and F-18 have evolved over the years, becoming extremely capable platforms. Suffice it to say that the F / A-18E / F Super Hornet is a virtually different cell than the original project. The F-16, however, has evolved from dogfighter pure low-cost multi-role fighter.

Despite being loved by drivers, are still projects that date back almost 50 years ago: in fact, the first F-16 flight is dated February 2, 1972 and the F-35 has already begun to supplant the international market both platforms.

The US Navy plans to buy sixteen other Super Hornet, with equally shared funding in fiscal year 2017/2018. Since 2019, the Navy will reverse the funds exclusively for the new fleet F-35C. The Air Force, however, has already for years undertaken such line. Translated it means that both aircraft their production lines will necessarily find international buyers to keep open.

It is hoped in the Middle East, but to date, negotiations are at a standstill due to the Israeli veto. Frozen the supply of thirty F-16E / F Block 61 as well as the renovation of Block-60 of the UAE fleet. Expressed "concern" for the 40 Super Hornet (pictured right) required from Kuwait. Lockheed hopes in Pakistan, which has already authorized the purchase of eight more F-16, even though the country seems to be ready to sign a contract with the Russians for a new line Su-35. Watching with interest in Colombia, Bahrain and Indonesia, but it is clear that even if they materialize some small orders, they would not be able to keep production lines open. Hence the need to find a large buyer: India. At stake is a billionaire order for the supply of 126 new platforms. New Delhi, in fact, must necessarily be replaced in the first MiG-21 still operating between the Air Force ranks. India, however, poses a pre-requirement: the production of in-house systems. Problem totally irrelevant to Boeing and Lockheed who expressed a positive opinion to that effect, even if such an agreement must receive the approval of Washington.

The IAF is based on 33 squadrons. Five are equipped with MiG-21:05 with the MiG-27. Six squadrons equipped with Jaguar. The latter, however, are grounded awaiting new engines, avionics and updates. Eleven squadrons equipped with air superiority fighter Su-30MKI manufactured under license (with the gradual withdrawal of the MiG-21/27 will go up to fifteen). Three squadrons, finally, the Mirage 2000H and three MiG-29, currently being retrofitted.

Increasingly uncertain the fate of the 'F-15 Eagle (picture on the left and below). Again, the end of the production line of one of the most beloved fighters Use of always is in the hands of Israel. The problem arises in opposition official of Israel against the possible supply of F-15 Silent Eagle to Qatar. Washington has only two alternatives: to act against his most trusted ally in the region and sell the hunt Qatar or increase billionaire supplies to Israel, allowing the latter to purchase additional F-15I. If, finally, there should come any orders at the factories of Boeing, Missouri, the line F-15 will close forever.

Israeli aircraft would have a strong interest in two new squadrons of F-15I equipped with AESA radar. the transaction total cost estimated at ten billion dollars. The ability to sign new agreements with Boeing, however, depends on the final scope of the new package of US aid that will be formalized in the coming weeks. However, it is only a question of money. If the US were to bestow military supplies for US $ 40 billion (2018/2028), Israel will ensure the investment only for the F-35. However, if Israel were to get supplies at a value of $ 50 billion, then you will be able to buy two squadrons of F-15I and save the Eagle. If by July Boeing should not be given orders will be forced to close after 40 years, the Eagle line.

According to Israel, Qatar would supports the extreme Sunni Islamic organizations and help directly to Hamas.

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