@Zarvan
sir can i pose a hypothetical question. suppose PAF had to choose between Rafale and JF 17 given quantum of present budget, what would have been the optimal choice.
now one point is it is a meaningless comparison both are very different platforms.
i do recall from
@Oscar analysis of JF 17 where the role of fighter is brought out and one point made that while quality of a fighter is a major consideration, numbers too are important especially when it comes to attrition losses. it is designed with a specific role and efforts must be put to realize that rather than comparing it with some entirely different platform and thereby end chasing a phantom.
so may be in context of LCA, few things must be considered honestly.
First with defence budget limited to a red line of certain percentage of GDP and all 3 arms under going massive modernization, one kids fantasies should not rob others of their deserved share.
second buying a certain number of Rafales doesn't necessarily mean shutting door on future. when more money is available in future, government can always revisit its decision.
Third let LCA 1A get inducted and let us wait to see its performance and how it matures. Indian agencies know, unless they keep their promise, government always has a choice of moving funds for procurement from one avenue to other.
All that said outright rejection of LCA, is not a good decision from either current strategic scenario or keeping future in mind.