Picdelamirand-oil
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There is no overhaul on rafale but maintenance "on condition" the engine is modular with 21 or22 modules (I don't remember) and diagnostic is embeded in weapon system, so when the Rafale land the maintenance people know if it need to replace a module and there is no need of bench test after the replacement. The two engine can be replaced in one hour. And the same principle apply for the whole plane. Iwill give later a NATO document explaining all this.I have no doubt that such availability will not be possible for an export customer but it is still spectacuarly impressive that any operator anywhere in the world is able to get such rates with a twin engined complex fighter. Furthermore, it adds some credance to the IAF's demand that their Rafale fleet acheive 90% availability- where I thought the IAF was asking a bit much but clearly not.
After the first investisment on ground for Rafale it would be cheaper to buy more Rafale than to buy F-18, I see no advantage in F-18 the Rafale LCC is lower, the Rafale performance is better.It's not just the 200 Rafales, but a new MRCA program is planned for at least 126 jets.
IAF needs to replace a total of 500-550 jets by 2027. Most of those will be covered by extra MKIs, 126 LCAs, minimum 180 Rafales and 126 new MRCA.
I think Super Hornet or Gripen-E/F will win. The main idea behind the second MRCA is cheap costs. Gripen is cheap owing to its design while Boeing may move their SH line in India to compete with Gripen. The SH bid was cheaper than Gripen by 20M during MMRCA. F-16 has no chance, Mig-35 also.
Another option is the LSA program, or Light Stealth Aircraft which will be an indigenous aircraft made in India.
Indian Navy needs 150 jets by 2027. So this will be a separate order. US Navy is pushing the F-35C for the navy as part of the carrier program. And Dassault is also competing.