Royal Australian Air Force [RAAF] News, Discussions and Updates

[Volkodav]

Tempest Future Fighter Aims For “Really Extreme Range,” Twice F-35 Payload

We're getting a clearer picture of what the Global Combat Air Program 'fighter' will be capable of, including acting as a flying computer server.

www.twz.com

In light of the recent Coalition announcement of a 4th squadron of F-35’s. If the Tempest was a potential replacement, more F-35’s seem like a waste of $$$ at this point in time.

The comments about range and payload are very interesting for Australia. Maybe this could be our next gen fighter as opposed to a USA solution? Has anyone ever seen any interest expressed from Australia in this program?

That was my thoughts when I heard the suggestion last year.

Unless they are an addition, i.e. an extra sqn to be stood up supporting the current Lightning and Rhino fleets, and entering service in the next couple of years, I can't see the point.

Better waiting for a Rhino replacement.

There has also been some media speculation in SEA about Australia acquiring F-15X.

Somebody let the bright idea fairies out I think

 

[hauritz]

Tempest Future Fighter Aims For “Really Extreme Range,” Twice F-35 Payload

We're getting a clearer picture of what the Global Combat Air Program 'fighter' will be capable of, including acting as a flying computer server.

www.twz.com

In light of the recent Coalition announcement of a 4th squadron of F-35’s. If the Tempest was a potential replacement, more F-35’s seem like a waste of $$$ at this point in time.

The comments about range and payload are very interesting for Australia. Maybe this could be our next gen fighter as opposed to a USA solution? Has anyone ever seen any interest expressed from Australia in this program?

The US might not really have a solution. Anything 4th gen won't cut it into the 2030s and beyond. B-21 are too expensive, F-35s lack range and payload and the F-47 is an F-22 replacement. I don't know what the USN is planning but it will probably not have the range we require.

On paper I admit GCAP is very tempting and the timing might be right for a Rhino/Growler replacement.

 

[John Fedup]

The US might not really have a solution. Anything 4th gen won't cut it into the 2030s and beyond. B-21 are too expensive, F-35s lack range and payload and the F-47 is an F-22 replacement. I don't know what the USN is planning but it will probably not have the range we require.

On paper I admit GCAP is very tempting and the timing might be right for a Rhino/Growler replacement.

There was a comment recently that the USN 6th Gen range would only be 25% greater than a F-35C so the MQ-25 refueling UAV will be critical.