Sancho
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Yes it is, because it ignores the different aims of the MK2 and Gripen E developments.Unrealistic expectations? First define what is realistic? Expecting Tejas MK2 to be equivalent of Gripen E is now unrealistic?
Gripen E was aimed at increasing load capabilities into the medium class, from the light class Gripen C/D base.
If Saab only wanted to add upgraded radar and flight performance, they could had done that with the C/D airframe as well, since Volvo offered an upgraded engine and the AESA could be added too.
LCA MK2 on the other hand, was aimed on fixing LCA MK1s performance problems and getting it to the level to comply to the ASR. That's why the higher thrust engine is the key upgrade, next to aerodynamic improvements.
So the expectation for LCA MK2 should not be to compete with medium class Gripen E, but be on par with upgraded Gripen C/Ds in the light class market.
One that can counter J10 and J11 in high numbers, that is able to do SEAD and heavy cross border strikes, to not make India dependent on MKIs alone.What is a more capable fighter?
Tejas is meant to support MMRCAs, just as Mig 21s supported Mirage 2000 or Mig 29s in the past.
Check the LCA improvement thread, I showed simple ways to make it more useful, even without big changes, or raising the expectations too high. But no doubt, I would be more than happy with Tejas being a good light class fighter, rather than an overhyped MMRCA.According to your definition of realism- Tejas MK2 is a light fighter that does nothing but interceptor role and small time bombing mission.