Lessons learned from supplier switching on fast jet fleets
Indonesia has long managed the Sukhoi Su-30 in its air force. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Arya dhieva1)
How difficult is it for air forces to change aircraft fleets, moving from one defence hemisphere to another?
Changing an air force’s primary supplier of combat aircraft is not something to be done lightly. Beyond the obvious hardware and integration aspects it requires a focus on training and doctrine.
As F-35 exports have shown, procurement of military equipment is largely decided by politics over a weapon’s utility or its required capability or the weapon’s utility. Ships, tanks and combat aircraft are big-ticket items, infrequently sought, and represent a clear statement as to the customer’s defence and diplomatic ties.
Yet, by the same token, a change in government, or circumstance, and the resultant new geopolitical outlook can have an
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![“Gloves are off” as US Defense Secretary memo calls for sweeping drone procurement reform]()
“Gloves are off” as US Defense Secretary memo calls for sweeping drone procurement reform
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has promised to usher in a new era of “military drone dominance”.
-
![Norway cleared for possible $2.6 billion HH-60W helicopter FMS]()
Norway cleared for possible $2.6 billion HH-60W helicopter FMS
The possible sale for nine HH-60W makes Norway the first Foreign Military Sale customer for the rescue and combat helicopter and adds to the country’s ongoing acquisition of Sikorsky-made helicopters.
-
![France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production]()
France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production
The new ‘Entente Industrielle’ will work on a range of other projects to boost the UK economy and defence industry, including joint development on new high-tech frequency weapons and extended range air-to-air missiles.
