Military Photos and Photoshops

Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 Described

2012-01-27T11:14:00.001+05:00

Secifications for Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4.

Block 3 Jf-17 XL : Cranked arrow delta wing

2012-01-22T08:34:00.000+05:00

Another one of my Jf-17 XL series, as previously seen here and here . Inspired from F-16 XL mod idea. I am pretty anthusiastic about it as the stats that F-16 XL project provided are too stunning to ignore. Inspired from the F-16 XL project, this modification gives JF-17 Thunder a substantial increase in payload, range, and speed. Unlike my previous edits, this is one features wings almost like the crancked arrow wings of F-16XL, Primarily intended for Strike role, the JF-17 XL can carry twice the payload of the JF-17, 40% further.

Just like many of my edits, this one too is not so high on the artistic side of things. Small patches of discoloration, rough texture, out of line pixels etc leave much to be desired, but basically i just want the idea to get around. Like in this particular edit, i just want to show how a crancked arrow wing would look on JF-17 thunder, minor bugs and labour intensive tweaks , i'll leave them for some other time to be addressed.

i'll try to add increase wing area more in further edits . Even though i know it is a far cry, im just throwing the idea out there never-the-less . but i think this option should be considered by PAF, as the increase in performance and capability stats is simply too impressive to ignore, as demoed by F-16 xl programe. It would require major re designing, no doubt, but if the resulting product gives range and weapon load capacity equal to Fc-20, then we can have a less expensive weapon system at our disposal. Not to mention the reduced operating and maintence costs as major sub systems, avionics and engine will be standardised as the rest of Jf-17 fleet .

3d realistic jf-17 thunder fighter - JF-17 Thunder Fighter V2 Rigged by 3d_molier

2012-01-22T06:35:00.001+05:00

3d realistic jf-17 thunder fighter - JF-17 Thunder Fighter V2 Rigged by 3d_molier.

Priced at 249.00 $, this is an awesome render by 3d_molier at Turbo Squid .

High resolution and realistic, fully detailed and textured JF-17 Thunder Fighter V2 Rigged. With interior. Comes with detailed color map textures. Detailed enough for close-up renders.
All parts are separate and pivoted for animation.
Moving parts are linked to helpers for easy control.
Originally modelled in 3ds max 8. Final images rendered with Vray.
The 3ds max zip file contains also vray and standard materials scenes.
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Features:
- High quality polygonal model - correctly scaled accurate representation of the original objects.
- Model resolutions are optimized for polygon efficiency (in 3DS MAX the meshsmooth function can be used to increase mesh resolution if necessary).
- All colors can be easily modified.
- Model is fully textured with all materials applied.
- All textures and materials are included and mapped in every format.
- Max models grouped for easy selection & objects are logically named for ease of scene management.
- No part-name confusion when importing several models into a scene.
- No cleaning up necessary, just drop your models into the scene and start rendering.
- No special plugin needed to open scene.
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Models:
51 objects 2 textures:
Quads: 85230
Points: 46500
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File formats:
- 3ds Max 8 Contains also vray and standard materials scenes!
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Textures formats:
1 texture(.jpg)(8192x8192)
1 texture(.jpg)(4096x4096)
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Hope you like it!
Also check out my other models, just click on my user name to see complete gallery.
© 3d_molier - 2012

JF-17 Thunder Block 2 with Canards

2012-01-22T04:28:00.000+05:00

Another Jf-17 with canard modification. Posted an earlier here. Canard is the French word for duck. Some of the early canard designs bore a strange resemblance to their namesakes. Oddly enough, canard in English means a gross exaggeration or hyperbole.

Advantages of Canards :

Advantages:

Possibility for very good stalling characteristics without elevator stops.
Sometimes a desirable layout from the packaging standpoint: Main wing carry-through behind cabin, pusher engine installation simplified.
Synergistic use of winglets for directional stability.
In certain cases a simplified control linkage is possible.
When wing flaps are not desired (for simplicity as in ultralights, or competition rules as with standard class sailplanes for example) the C_{L_max} of a canard may exceed that of an aft-tail airplane.
For unstable aircraft, canard designs may have a C_{L_max} and/or drag advantage.
Control authority is larger for unstable canard aircraft at high C_L than for unstable aft-tail designs.

Sukhoi tests new fighter : Su-35S

2012-01-22T02:40:00.001+05:00

Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi has flight tested its Serial Three Su-35S Flanker-E multipurpose jet fighter for the first time.

During the test Tuesday, which lasted more than two hours, the aircraft's propulsion and control systems were put through their paces and "proved to be flawless," the company said.

Additional details on the initial flight test have not been disclosed.

The Su-35S is based on the earlier Su-27 but with an improved airframe, two central digital computers, advanced avionics and new radar with phased array antennas.

The closest competitor aircraft to the Su-27, which was introduced into service in 1988, is the U.S. F-15 Eagle.

With increased fuel capacity, the range of the Su-35S is more than 2,200 miles.

The maximum speed at altitude is about 1,400 mph. Its ceiling is 59,000 feet.

Sukhoi said the Su-35S can detect aircraft out to a range of nearly 250 miles, farther than that of other combat aircraft.

The Generation 4++ fighter's radar can reportedly track simultaneously 30 aerial targets and engage eight as well as track four ground targets and engage two.

Weaponry carried by the Su-35 include a 30mm cannon, laser-guided and unguided bombs, anti-radar missiles, anti-aircraft missiles and missiles for use against maritime targets.

With reduced protruding sensors and application to the fuselage of special coatings, the Flanker-E has a reduced radar signature.

The first two Su-35S planes (Serial One and Serial Two) were delivered to a Russian government testing center in August and have already performed more than 400 test flights.

The testing has involved propulsion, aircraft maneuverability, stability and control, as well as functioning of the aircraft navigation system.

Sukhoi projects the service life of the aircraft as 6,000 flight hours and a planned operational life of 30 years.

Potential export customers of the SU-35 aircraft are said to include China, India, Malaysia, Brazil and Indonesia.

Su-35 KNAAPO Brochure Loadouts

Su-35 Cockpit

Source: Sukhoi tests new fighter

Argentinian Air Force

2012-01-22T02:26:00.000+05:00

Together with Mirage 5 aircraft brought up to 'Finger' standard, the A-4AR forms the backbone of the current FAA which still has a way to go with regard to force-wide modernisation.

A-4AR Fightinghawk, an upgraded version of the Skyhawk, in the second halve of the nineties.

FAA reinforced itself again to make up for the encountered losses. Mirage 3C were obtained from Israel, Mirage 5 were provided by Peru.

Fuerza Aérea Argentina

JF-17 XL v1.1

2012-01-15T23:34:00.001+05:00

This is a slightly retouched version of JF-17 XL . Just a little bit modification of the canopy area this time.

My other works of JF-17 block 2 can be seen here.

French Dassault Rafale wallpapers

2012-01-14T23:37:00.002+05:00

Rafale front section close up.

Rafale B afterburner

Dassault Rafale in a dive.

Rafale C of French Airforce.

Rafale going Topgun style : this is tom cruise requesting a flyby:

JF-17 B and MiG-25 : Hi, we are twins

2012-01-12T01:08:00.000+05:00

Inspired from Mig-25 double seater, Jf-17

MiG-25 double seater

Indian Air Force MiG-25

JF-17 B and MiG-25 : Hi, we are twins.

Jf-17E Block 3 : Thunder XL

2012-01-11T19:52:00.001+05:00

Inspired from the F-16 XL project, this modification gives JF-17 Thunder a substantial increase in payload, range, and speed. Unlike the crancked arrow wing of F-16XL, this particular Jf-17 mounts a diamond shaped wing, commonly associated with YF-23 Black Widow. Primarily intended for Strike role, Block 3 because of its increased internal fuel capacity and payload, the JF-17 XL can carry twice the payload of the JF-17, 40% further. The increased payload was carried on 17 hardpoints, which were arranged as follows:

6 wing weapons stations (750 lb capacity)
4 semi-submerged SD-10A stations
2 wingtip stations
1 centerline station
2 wing "heavy / wet" stations (2000 lb)
2 chin stations for Targetting/ navigational pods.

General characteristics:
Crew: 2
Length: 50 ft 2 in (16.51 m)
Wingspan: 31 ft 3 in (10.44 m)
Height: 15 ft 7 in (5.36 m)
Wing area: 533 ft2 (58.81 m2)
Empty weight: 15,000 lb (7,980 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 28,000 lb (14,775 kg)
Powerplant: 1× WS-10 turbofan
Dry thrust: 17,155 lbf (76.3 kN)
Thrust with afterburner: 28,984 lbf (128.9 kN)
Performance:
Maximum speed: Mach 2.0
Range: 2,480 nm (2,850 mi, 4,590 km)
Service ceiling: 50,000 ft (15,240 m)
Rate of climb: 62,000 ft/min (315 m/s)

Hongdu L-15 Falcon

2012-01-11T14:11:00.000+05:00

The Hongdu L-15 Falcon made it's maiden flight in 2006. This advanced trainer is competing for the PLAAF's next generation advanced trainer aircraft programme against the Guizhou JL-9.

Development of this aircraft was assisted by Russian Yakovlev design bureau, hence it's resemblance to the Yak-130.

The L-15 is intended to train pilots to fly high-performance forth-generation aircraft, such as the J-10 and Su-27. It is also suitable to complete all basic jet flight training courses.

Aircraft is fitted with two Ukranian AL-222K-25F turbofan engines with afterburners. If this aircraft is chosen by the PLAAF, production license for this engine will be obtained.

The L-15 has secondary light attack capability. It has four underwing and two wingtip hardpoints to carry various weapons, including short-range air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, bombs and rocket pods.

This aircraft features a number of advanced technologies such as digital fly-by-wire, hands on throttle and stick controls. It also has good aerodynamic performance.

The L-15 Falcon is more advanced in terms of technology comparing with the JL-9, however it is also more expensive to produce. If this aircraft is chosen by the PLAAF, first operational trainers will become available as early as 2008. The L-15 is also proposed for the export customers.

Boeing P-8i Indian Navy

2012-01-11T13:45:00.001+05:00

Description and Purpose

The P-8I is a long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations. The P-8I is a variant of the P-8A Poseidon that Boeing is developing for the U.S. Navy.
This military derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800 combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in the future battle space.

Customer

The Indian navy is the first international customer for the P-8. Boeing signed a contract Jan. 1, 2009, to deliver eight long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft to the Indian navy. Boeing will deliver the first P-8I within 48 months of contract signing, and the remaining seven by 2015.
India’s immediate need is for eight aircraft, but Boeing believes there is long-term potential for additional aircraft sales.
India’s immediate need is for eight aircraft, but Boeing believes there is long-term potential for additional aircraft sales.

General Characteristics

Propulsion:	Two CFM56-7 engines providing 27,300 pounds thrust each
Length:	39.47 meters
Wing Span:	37.64 meters
Height:	12.83 meters
Maximum Takeoff Gross Weight:	85,139 kilograms
Speed:	490 knots (789 km/h)
Range:	1,200+ nautical miles, with 4 hours on station (2,222 kilometers)
Ceiling:	12,496 meters
Crew:	9

Boeing will build the P-8I at its production facility in Renton, Wash. The 737 fuselage will be built by Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita, Kan., and then sent to Renton where all aircraft structural features unique to the P-8 will be incorporated in sequence during fabrication and assembly. Aircraft quality and performance acceptance flight testing will be conducted from Boeing Field in Seattle.

Background

Boeing was awarded a $3.89 billion contract for the system development and demonstration (SDD) phase of the P-8A Poseidon for the U.S. Navy on June 14, 2004. SDD activities include developing and integrating all the necessary software and onboard mission systems and developing training systems.
The P-8I is the first international model of the P-8A. In July 2010, Boeing successfully completed the final design review (FDR) for P-8I, locking in the design for the aircraft, radar, communications, navigation, mission computing, acoustics and sensors, as well as the ground and test support equipment. The final design review also paves the way for the program to begin assembling the first P-8I aircraft.

Miscellaneous

Boeing and its industry partners provide unrivaled expertise in both large-scale systems integration and network centric operations, plus unquestioned leadership in developing and customizing military and commercial products for maritime forces. Boeing leads an industry team that consists of CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, GE Aviation and Spirit AeroSystems. In addition, Boeing anticipates substantial industrial participation on the aircraft from Indian industry.

JF-17 Thunder fighter jet Block II : Gripen of the East .

2012-01-11T00:43:00.000+05:00

Further re-touches to the last edit. More like Gripen NG. The rear landing gears retracting into the LERX, leaving room for 2 LGBs to be carried under the belly. Two LCAMs on inner wing pylons. Looks similar to Storm-Shadow ..... may be an improved version of Ra'ad. Who knows ..... ?

The Pakistan Air Force will start receiving the improved version of the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet Block II. The Block II Thunder will include newer and improved capabilities including data link and electronic warfare capabilities aerial refuelling, new radar & avionics.

The JF-17 Thunder Block II will also expend its inventory of new generation precision guided weapons including cruise missiles. Pakistan and China are also developing a two-seater version of the JF-17 Thunder.

The deliveries of the Block II Thunder to Pakistan Air Force are scheduled to start from the second half of the 2012 and will continue till 2015. From 2016, JF-17 Thunder Block III will enter into production .

Pakistani Air Chief Marshall Rao Qamar Suleiman has said at the Dubai Air Show, “We offer performance comparable to U.S. and European fighters when it comes to radar, dogfight missile, range and BVR [beyond visual range] capabilities, for one third of the cost.”

The officials of the joint marketing team for the promotion and sale of the JF-17 Thunder has said that at-least five middle eastern countries has shown interest in the JF-17 Thunder and will be test flying the aircraft for in future to experience its performance first hand.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is also evaluating the FC-1/JF-17 Thunder and will take decision regarding its induction into the service in near future

Panavaia Tornado in various color schemes

2012-01-09T19:13:00.004+05:00

Panavaia Tornado taking off.

German Luftwaffe Tornado with 2 Sparrow semi-active radar homing air-air missile.

Italian Panavaia Tornado flying low.

Italian airforce Tornado taxing.

Panavia Tornado landing .

F14 tomcat in the Gulf War

2012-01-07T07:53:00.001+05:00

A Fighter Squadron 74 (VF-74) F-14A Tomcat aircraft taxis past three other Tomcats on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60)

An F-14 Tomcat assigned to the "Swordsmen" of Fighter Squadron (VF) 32 launches off the number two steam powered catapult aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Currently, aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 embarked on Truman are providing close air support and conducting Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions in ongoing operations. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and CVW-3 are currently on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.

An AIM-54C Phoenix missile and two chaff and flare dispensers sit on skids beside a Fighter Squadron 103 (VF-103) F-14A Tomcat aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) during gulf war.

An F-14A Tomcat aircraft refuels from a U.S. Air Force KC-10A Extender aircraft as other Tomcats fly in formation, during Operation Desert Storm. Squadrons represented by the aircraft are, from foreground: Fighter Squadron 33 (VF-33), Fighter Squadron 84 (VF-84) and Fighter Squadron 14 (VF-14).
An underside view of a Fighter Squadron 41 (VF-41) F-14A Tomcat aircraft on a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) during gulf war. The aircraft is carrying four AIM-7 Sparrow missiles under its fuselage and two AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles on each wing pylon.

Three Fighter Squadron 32 (VF-32) F-14A Tomcat aircraft fly in formation over the desert during gulf war. VF-32 is based aboard the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67).

An F-14 Tomcat aircraft of Fighter Squadron 103 (VF-103) prepares for refueling during gulf war. The aircraft is armed with AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.

Action in Desert Storm--
As an air-to-air fighter, the F-14 did not get to see much of the Iraqi Air Force given their destruction and their desire not to fly.Fleet deliveries of Navy F-14D fighters began in March 1990, but the fighters did not have a defensive system to jam signals from radar-guided missiles homing in on the aircraft. F-14's were used to provide combat air patrols over attacking carrier based aircraft and their ships, an F-14A from VF-103 was shot down by an SA-2 surface-to-air missile while on an escort mission near Al Asad airbase in Iraq. A total of 4,124 sorties were flown by the 99 F-14 Tomcats deployed to the Gulf.for a total of 14,248 flight hours.

F-14 fighter jet wallpapers

2012-01-07T07:51:00.000+05:00

Lieutenant West McCall F-14 pilot from Deland, Fla., and Lieutenant Kimberly Arrington, a Radar Intercept Officer from King, N.C., test fire a Phoenix air to air missile as part of an Annual Proficiency exercise.
Pula, Croatia (Oct. 28, 2002) -- An F-14B "Tomcat" Fighter jet flies in formation with a pair of MiG-21 assigned to the Croat Air Force.

2) Northern Iraq (Apr. 11, 2003) -- A U.S. Navy Grumman F-14 Tomcat assigned to Carrier Air Wing Three onboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), flies a combat mission in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

A F-14 Fighter aircraft (VF-143) "Pukin Dogs" receives final maintenance before evening flight operations on the flight deck of USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN73).
An F14B Tomcat assigned to Fighter Attack Squadron Three Two (VF-32) (Swordsmen) Prepares to land on the flight deck of Truman . USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

An F14D Tomcat assigned to the "Blacklions" of Fighter Squadron Two One Three (VF-213) launches from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).

An F14D Tomcat from Fighter Squadron Three One (VF-31), the “Tomcatters,” performs a fly by past the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a supersonic, twin-engine, variable sweep wing, two-place strike fighter. The Tomcat's primary missions are air superiority, fleet air defense and precision strike against ground targets.(4) U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley

An F14D Tomcat assigned to the "Tomcatters" of Fighter Squadron Three One (VF-31) launches from the flight deck of aircraft carrier

Arabian GulfAboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)Sailors part of Fighter Squadron Three One (VF-31) prepares to do maintenance on an F-14 Tomcat on the flight deck of USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). The nuclear powered aircraft carrier and embarked Carrier Air Wing Eight are currently underway on a regularly scheduled deployment conducting maritime security operations.

Arabian Gulf (July 09, 2004) - An F-14D Tomcat fighter jet assigned to the Jolly Rogers of Fighter Squadron (VF 103) and an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Sunliners of Strike Fighter Squadron Eight One (VFA 81) makes final preparation for launch from the flight deck of USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). USS John F. Kennedy Strike Group currently on a regularly scheduled deployment, is taking part in Summer Pulse 04.

OVER IRAQ -- An F-14 Tomcat flies through the sky during a combat mission August 14 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Lee O. Tucker

EA-18G Growler wallpapers

2012-01-07T07:48:00.000+05:00

SD551 (EA-18G-1) During Initial Sea Trial on aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower

Boeing EA-18G Growler 166895 VAQ-129 Vikings NAS Whidbey Island WA Taxiing out at NAF El Centro CA

Landing Nellis AFB, Las Vegas

Aircraft: Boeing EA-18G Growler (166897)Unit: VAQ-129 "Vikings"Base: NAS Whidbey Island, WA That is NOT a Super Hornet !! the brand new EA-18G Growler, the substitute of the EA-6B Prowler. Looks like the Rhino, but note the wingtips and the ALQ-99 jammer pods.

AN/ALQ-218 (V)2 wideband receiver wingtip pod detail on a Boeing EA-18G Growler 166893 from VAQ-129 Vikings NAS Whidbey Island at NAF El Centro

JF-17 Thunder for Brazil

2012-01-06T07:39:00.002+05:00

JF-17 Thunder for Brazil FAB.

Brazil MMRCA FX-2 : Saab Gripen NG photos and wallpapers

2012-01-06T07:17:00.006+05:00

Brazil's F-X2 fighter programme could be the subject of further delays, after a summary of the air force's 30,000-page evaluation report was leaked to one of the country's leading newspapers.
The Folha de São Paulo newspaper reported that the air force's F-X2 procurement programme committee has ranked Saab's Gripen NG as its first-choice candidate for the deal, initially for 36 aircraft, due to its lowest acquisition and operating costs. It is followed closely by Boeing's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Block II.
The report confirms rumours that have been floating since October 2009 and heightens tensions between the air force and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Late last year the Brazilian president stated his preference for the Dassault Rafale, which was reportedly ranked third by the service.
Air force sources have raised concerns that a decision could be deferred until after this year's presidential elections, or that the long-running fighter selection process could be postponed again.

The leaked summary suggests that the F3-standard Rafale was ranked last because of its high purchase price and operating costs. A related technology transfer package - a key element of the F-X2 selection criteria - was also deemed inadequate, the report says. Embraer is believed to have shown little interest in participating in production of the Rafale, after it was offered the opportunity to manufacture the wings for Brazilian examples.
Saab claims that its Gripen NG proposal - which is backed by the governments of Sweden and the UK - will provide higher technology transfer yield for Brazilian companies. Selex Galileo on 5 January announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with local firm ATMOS Sistemas to develop active electronically scanned array radar technologies to Brazil.
Selex, which is developing its Vixen 1000E/Raven ES-05 for use with the Gripen NG, says the relationship could also cover AESA systems for other fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles.
Following the news report, the air force issued a statement saying that while its evaluation report of the fighters has been completed, it has not yet been forwarded to the defence ministry for assessment. A Dassault source says that such local press reports should be "handled with caution".
Although the F-X2 programme initially covers the purchase of 28 single-seat fighters and eight mission-capable trainers to equip three squadrons, it could eventually rise to up to 120 aircraft. The selected type will replace the air force's Alenia/Embraer AMX strike aircraft, upgraded Northrop F-5EM/FMs and Dassault Mirage 2000C fighters.

Russian Navy MiG-29K photos

2012-01-05T17:20:00.001+05:00

The Russian Navy had a fleet of 19 carrier-based fighters Su-33, a resource which will expire by 2015. Production of new Su-33s is possible but not cost-effective for small volumes. The MiG-29K is more convenient, as the Indian Navy had already ordered the aircraft, saving on development and production set-up. India paid $730 million for the development and delivery of 16 fighters, while 24 planes for Russia's fleet would cost about $1 billion.^[30] In 2009, prior to delivery to India, MiG-29Ks underwent testing on board the Admiral Kuznetsov.^[31]^[32] In September 2011, it was announced that the MiG-29K was to conduct its first at-sea deployment on board Admiral Kuznetsov in the Mediterranean.^[33]
The Russian Navy ordered 24 MiG-29Ks for carrier use in late 2009 for the Admiral Kuznetsov.^[34] Deliveries of the MiG-29K for the Russian Navy started in 2010.^[35]^[36] Negotiations between MiG and the Russian Defense Ministry for further MiG-29K/KUB aircraft were in "the final stages" as of August 2011, according to MiG deputy head Sergei Korotkov.^[37]
The Russian Navy had fielded several brand new Mig-29K fighters for testing during their first assignment.

MiG 29 K In Indian Service

2012-01-05T17:11:00.002+05:00

MiG 29 In Indian Service :

India was the first international customer of the MiG-29. The Indian Air Force (IAF) placed an order for more than 50 MiG-29s in 1980 while the aircraft was still in its initial development phase. Since its induction into the IAF in 1985, the aircraft has undergone a series of modifications with the addition of new avionics, sub-systems, turbofan engines and radars. The upgraded Indian version is known as Baaz (Hindi for Hawk) and forms a crucial component of the second-line offensive aircraft-fleet of the IAF after the Sukhoi Su-30MKI.
Indian MiG-29s were used extensively during the 1999 Kargil War in Kashmir by the Indian Air Force to provide fighter escort for Mirage 2000s, which were attacking targets with laser-guided bombs. According to Indian sources, two MiG-29s from the IAF's No. 47 squadron (Black Archers) gained missile lock on two F-16s of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) which were patrolling close to the border to prevent any incursions by Indian aircraft, but did not engage them because no official declaration of war had been issued. The Indian MiG-29s were armed with beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles whereas the Pakistani F-16s were not.
The MiG-29’s good operational record prompted India to sign a deal with Russia in 2005—2006 to upgrade all of its MiG-29s for US$888 million. Under the deal, the Indian MiGs were modified to be capable of deploying the R-77RVV-AE (AA-12 'Adder') air-to-air missile, also known as the Amraamski. The missiles had been successfully tested in October 1998 and were integrated into IAF's MiG-29s. IAF has also awarded the MiG Corporation another US$900 million contract to upgrade all of its 69 operational MiG-29s. These upgrades will include a new avionics fit, with the N-109 radar being replaced by a Phazatron Zhuk-M radar. The aircraft is also being equipped to enhance beyond-visual-range combat ability and for air-to-air refuelling to increase endurance. In 2007, Russia also gave India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) a licence to manufacture 120 RD-33 series 3 turbofan engines for the upgrade.^[31] The upgrade will also include a new weapon control system, cockpit ergonomics, air-to-air missiles, high-accuracy air-to-ground missiles and "smart" aerial bombs. The first six MiG-29s will be upgraded in Russia while the remaining 63 MiGs will be upgraded at the HAL facility in India. India also awarded a multi-million dollar contract to Israel Aircraft Industries to provide avionics and subsystems for the upgrade^.

In March 2009, the Indian Air Force expressed concern after 90 MiG-29s were grounded in Russia.^[33] After carrying out an extensive inspection, the IAF cleared all MiG-29s in its fleet in March 2009. In a disclosure in Parliament, Defence Minister A. K. Antony said the MiG-29 is structurally flawed in that it has a tendency to develop cracks due to corrosion in the tail fin. Russia has shared this finding with India, which emerged after the crash of a Russian Air Force MiG-29 in December 2008. "A repair scheme and preventive measures are in place and IAF has not encountered major problems concerning the issue," Antony said. Despite concerns of Russia's grounding, India sent the first six of its 78 MiG-29s to Russia for upgrades in 2008. The upgrade program will fit the MiGs with a phased array radar (PESA) and in-flight re-fuelling capability. In January 2010, India and Russia signed a US$1.2 billion deal under which the Indian Navy would acquire 29 additional MiG-29Ks, bringing the total number of MiG-29Ks on order to 45.^[36] The MiG-29K entered service with the Indian Navy on 19 February 2010.^[37] The upgrade of all IAF MiG-29 "Baaz" to latest MiG-29SMT standard is in process, which will include latest avionics, Zhuk-ME Radar, engine, weapon control systems etc., enhancing multirole capabilities by many-fold

USN F-14 Tomcat Fact file and photos

2012-01-05T10:56:00.001+05:00

USN F-14

F-14 goes super sonic

F-14 dangerous carrier landing

F-14 swing wing fighter, with folded back wings for high speed pass

F-14 with spread wings for take off

YF-23 Black Widow II photos

2012-01-05T10:48:00.005+05:00

The Northrop/McDonnell Douglas YF-23 "Black Widow II" — unofficially named by Northrop after its P-61 Black Widow — was a prototype fighter aircraft designed for the United States Air Force. It was passed over in favor of the YF-22 that has entered production as the F-22 Raptor.

Design and development

The YF-22 and YF-23 were competing in the USAF's Advanced Tactical Fighter program. Conceived in the early 1980s, to specify a replacement for the F-15 Eagle, contracts for the two most promising designs were awarded in 1986, with the YF-23 delivered in 1989 and the evaluation concluded in 1991. Many levels of subcontractors were lined up on each side of the decision, and some on the losing side did not survive long afterwards.
The YF-23 was designed with stealth as a high priority and was a highly unconventional-looking aircraft with diamond-shaped wings blended with the fuselage and a V-tail. The YF-23A met USAF requirements for survivability, supersonic cruise, stealth and ease of maintenance. However, the YF-22A was more maneuverable than the YF-23A and won the competition in April 1991. Another factor was that the YF-22A was also seen as more adaptable to the Navy's Navalized Advanced Tactical Fighter (NATF), though as it turned out the Navy abandoned NATF a few months later.
Although the precise results of the evaluation are not yet public knowledge, it is often claimed that the YF-23 was faster and stealthier than its competitor, but the USAF chose the YF-22 due to simply being more conventional, higher subsonic maneuverability, longer range, and better warning systems. Others point out the YF-23's comparatively flawed weapons release mechanism wherein missiles are stacked on racks, and a weapons jam of a lower-positioned missile could prevent the firing of the missile above it. In any case, the decision is still widely debated.

Testing

Two aircraft were built. After losing the competition, both YF-23 prototypes were transferred from Norththrop to NASA's Dryden Flight Center, at Edwards AFB, California. The engines were removed; NASA had no plans to perform flight tests with the airframes, but did plan to use one of the two aircraft to study strain gage loads calibration techniques.
In the end, however, both aircraft remained in storage until the summer of 1996, when the aircraft were transferred to museums. Aircraft PAV-2 was in exhibit at the Western Museum of Flight in Hawthorne, California and PAV-1[verification needed] was recently moved to the National Museum of the United States Air Force near Dayton, Ohio, where it sits along side the Boeing X-32 in the Aircraft Restoration Hangar. Aircraft PAV-1[verification needed] is now on display in an outdoor parking area at Northrop Grumman's production facility in El Segundo, California.

Revival?

In late 2004, Northrop Grumman proposed a YF-23 based design for the USAF's interim bomber requirement, a role for which the FB-22 and B-1R are also competing. Aircraft PAV-1 was moved from the Western Museum of Flight to Northrup's plant for refurbishment after being on outside display for more than a decade. Instead, Northrup used the aircraft to create a full scale model of its proposed interim bomber before restoring it back to its original configuration and returning it to the Western Museum of Flight. The interim bomber requirement has since been cancelled in favor of a more long-term, permament bomber replacement requirement; however, the same YF-23-derived design will likely be adapted to fulfill this role as well.

General characteristics

Crew: one pilot
Length: 67 ft 5 in (20.60 m)
Wingspan: 43 ft 7 in (13.30 m)
Height: 13 ft 11 in (4.30 m)
Wing area: 948 ft² (88m²)
Empty weight: 32,934 lb (14,970 kg)
Loaded weight: 51,320 lb (23,327 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 64,000 lb (29,029 kg)
Powerplant: × General Electric YF120 or Pratt & Whitney YF119 , 35,000 lbf (156 kN) each

Performance

Maximum speed: 1,400 mph/mach 2.58 (2,240 km/h)
Combat radius: 860-920 miles (750-800 nautical miles) unrefuelled (1,474 km)
Service ceiling: 65,000 ft (19,800 m)
Wing loading: 54 lb/ft² (265 kg/m²)
Thrust/weight: 1.81

Armament

1× 20 mm M61 Vulcan cannon
6× air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder

Swedish Saab JAS-39 Gripen photos

2012-01-05T05:20:00.000+05:00

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen (English: Griffin) is a lightweight single-engine multirole fighter manufactured by the Swedish aerospace company Saab. It was designed to replace the Saab 35 Draken and 37 Viggen in the Swedish Air Force (Flygvapnet). The Gripen features delta wings and canards, as well as relaxed stability design and fly-by-wire technology.
In 1979, the Swedish government began development studies for an aircraft capable of fighter, attack and reconnaissance missions to replace the Saab 35 Draken and 37 Viggen. One of Saab's designs was chosen, and was developed into the JAS 39. Comparatively small relative to similar fighters, the Gripen has a top speed of Mach 2. Eight hardpoints allow it to carry various bombs and missiles, supplemented by the 27 mm Mauser BK-27 cannon. Its GE F404-derived Volvo-Flygmotor RM12 produces more than 80 kilonewtons (18,000 lbf) of thrust with afterburner, giving the aircraft a thrust-to-weight ratio of 0.97.
Beset by early problems with its avionics during flight testing, during which a prototype was lost, the aircraft entered service in 1997. Saab has since co-operated with other aerospace companies in marketing the aircraft internationally, and has achieved moderate success in Central Europe, South Africa and Southeast Asia. More than 264 Gripens have been delivered or ordered as of 2011.^[3]

JF-17 block 2 With Canards aka Su-30 Mki Killer

2012-01-04T17:58:00.003+05:00

JF-17 block 2 With added Canards modification. This is PAF answer to Su-30 Mki . Also known in aviation circles as Mki-ski or Mki-Killer ..