Dillinger
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Well it could be a warning in disguise to HAL and other agencies to get their act together and ensure FOC and subsequent delivery schedules are not missed. It looks a bit crazy to have an altogether new fighter just to cover up the lost time owing to delays in LCA program. Doesn't make sense either operationally nor economically.
am sorry, didn't know HAL is pushing forward the case of arming Hawks. But again why? All they need to do is concentrate on LCA production which hopefully is in quite matured state (production line pov). Don't think stop gap arrangements will do anyone, any good.
There is nothing definitive on when the LCA mk.2 will finally reveal itself (beyond the 2018 first flight, a dubious claim as things stand now) , there in lies the problem; not with the mk.1 which will sure as rain find its place in the IAF's roster. So, why the RM felt the need to "apply pressure" on HAL is beyond me. A strategic plan (after all the current government is fond of stating that meeting strategic requirements requires suspension of established procedures sometimes, and the LCA is as strategic as it gets, its about the future of the Indian MIC) needs to be developed and put in operation to ramp up production rates. IF we can squeeze 4 squadrons by 2020 (optimistic) then the LCA will find itself on sound footing, let the IAF induct and sure as rain the complaints and whinging will stop.