[quote name='sai_k' date='18 January 2010 - 09:56 AM' timestamp='1263788331' post='103568']
Regarding the technology that should be going into MCA(NGFA), why not use LCA as prototype vehicle, and produce various blocks/tranches that perhaps get the required wet thrusts, AESA radar (perhaps GaN based), stealth skins and advanced absorption materials, reduced signature etc.
We could use LCA models as staging platform for MCA. We need a lot of investment though.
[/quote]
LCA needs to be operationally flyable before one can consider using as a platform for validating these futuristic technologies.
All these technologies can be developed and proven on aircraft that is already a workhorse in IAF. HS748 is out of production line but there are enough in inventory to use.
JMT.
Signature reduction OTOH however can only be in anechoic lab or actual prototype aircraft. One can't bastardize a non-stealth craft to calibrate small test structure that are stealthy.
Regarding the technology that should be going into MCA(NGFA), why not use LCA as prototype vehicle, and produce various blocks/tranches that perhaps get the required wet thrusts, AESA radar (perhaps GaN based), stealth skins and advanced absorption materials, reduced signature etc.
We could use LCA models as staging platform for MCA. We need a lot of investment though.
[/quote]
LCA needs to be operationally flyable before one can consider using as a platform for validating these futuristic technologies.
All these technologies can be developed and proven on aircraft that is already a workhorse in IAF. HS748 is out of production line but there are enough in inventory to use.
JMT.
Signature reduction OTOH however can only be in anechoic lab or actual prototype aircraft. One can't bastardize a non-stealth craft to calibrate small test structure that are stealthy.