Assuming around 150 flying hours per annum (minimum flight hours to develop well trained combat pilot skills), one would reach 500+ hours within 3 years and 5 months. Sounds like something one would achieve in a single posting to a Su-30MKI squadron (or are Air Force postings shorter in duration?).
Also Rafale prod line is already running on full capacity, expect a longer delay.
ORCA need will rise when 20 years later su30MKI starts to retire.
Apna beta Rafale udaye... Doosre ka Mig-21.
Even I wanted to write the same thing but I would have been bashed so I avoided
Hopefully this puts an end to any thought of F18. Just go with more Rafale, make the supply chain smoother
And how are you going to fit them in Vikrants' lift?
I would support this plan if they come out with a TEDBF tech demonstrator or prototype by now. But they have only yet to begin designing the plans and AUTOCAD drawings. They have not even manufactured any of the components. And the Mig-29Ks are rapidly aging due to the maritime stress of landing and taking off in afterburner constantly.
Let em conclude 42 in our lifetime .
You are right. TEDBF development would take at least a decade excluding commissioning.
Shrimaan sach kehta hu, maine kalpana bhi nai ki thi ki kabhi apne jeevan me aisa bhi kuch padhunga , aap adbhut hain .
We won't reach 42 if we target 42. We'll reach it if we target 60. That is how Indian bureaucracy works: in perpetual deficit.
