RAF Urged To Cut ‘Cold War’ New Jets For Cheap Propeller Aircraft -- Times Online
The RAF is under pressure to cut its multibillion-pound orders for fast jets in favour of cheaper propeller aircraft as part of a review of defence spending. The suggestion, from General Sir David Richards, has ignited a debate that pitches the head of the Army against his opposite numbers in the other two Services.
General Richards, Chief of the General Staff, believes that the Super Tucano offers a cost-effective alternative to fast jets such as the Cold War-era Eurofighter Typhoon in counter-insurgency operations such as those in Afghanistan. Resembling something from the Second World War, a Super Tucano costs about £5 million, a fraction of the £60 million estimated cost of the F35 Joint Strike Fighter ordered for the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carriers or the £67 million of a Typhoon.
General Richards, Chief of the General Staff, believes that the Super Tucano offers a cost-effective alternative to fast jets such as the Cold War-era Eurofighter Typhoon in counter-insurgency operations such as those in Afghanistan. Resembling something from the Second World War, a Super Tucano costs about £5 million, a fraction of the £60 million estimated cost of the F35 Joint Strike Fighter ordered for the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carriers or the £67 million of a Typhoon.
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Update: Low and Slow for the RAF -- New Wars
My Comment: These planes will have a greater impact on today's counter insurgency wars than multi-billion dollar jets .... better to fight the wars that you have than the wars that may be.
Read more ....
Update: Low and Slow for the RAF -- New Wars
My Comment: These planes will have a greater impact on today's counter insurgency wars than multi-billion dollar jets .... better to fight the wars that you have than the wars that may be.