At present, its role is intended for Training and Advanced Light Fighter roles where it is still not at par with dedicated Multirole Fighter Jets in which aside from having more hardpoints to carry a payload like bombs and missiles, it also lacked a feature that pertains to advanced detection of enemy targets such as the Beyond Visual Range or BVR radar.
Now, the question is this: How ideal is for the FA-50s like the ones the Air Force currently obtains to be fitted with such feature? Will this mean a lot for the organization? Will this help the pilots train more about this feature with MRFs also coming in the pipeline? Or rather, will this affect the MRF program itself? Such questions are seeking answers that are seen to clarify this out for all to understand.
DISCUSSION OVERVIEW
DISCUSSION OVERVIEW
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| Before the MRFs will be delivered to PAF, its current fighter jet is composed of FA-50PH LIFT aircraft from South Korea. Photo Source |
The Philippine Air Force or PAF at present date obtains a squadron of FA-50PH that already sought real action in areas like Butig in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City in the last year's conflict against radical terrorists that render the City down into shambles.
These fighter jets or Lead-in Fighter Trainers in PAF's vocabulary proves its worth in the organization wherein in the case of conflict that takes place, its pilots gain the knowledge to the way the aircraft operates as well as for the ground crew about its maintenance.
These fighter jets or Lead-in Fighter Trainers in PAF's vocabulary proves its worth in the organization wherein in the case of conflict that takes place, its pilots gain the knowledge to the way the aircraft operates as well as for the ground crew about its maintenance.
Let us take note that since the retirement of the last F-5s at the beginning of the century, PAF was left with only Close Air Support Aircraft such as the OV-10 Broncos as well as Combat Utility Helicopters such as the UH-1s and Airlift platforms like the C-130. With the FA-50s now in the country and in active service, the organization once more regain the capability that these birds obtain which signals the return of the Philippine Air Force back to the jet age.
Before proceeding to the main discussion of this topic, we may recommend everyone to read this article about The Role of FA-50PH as Both Trainer and Light Fighter on this website. It is worth taking note that the FA-50 obtains the potential to have such feature in each unit in terms of detection that the installation of Beyond Visual Range may enhance the performance of these birds in the process, even on the article aforementioned wherein the idea of having EL/M 2032 radars fitted on the jet is a good idea where it can support both Derby and Python missiles, the same munitions that can be found on the SPYDER Ground-Based Air Defense Systems which is the candidate for the project for ground-based air defense.
While that idea of streamlining logistics and enhancing capabilities for the FA-50PH or the T-50 Family of the Korean Aerospace Industries in terms of sensors may be interesting on its worth, the fact remains that these airframes lack the capacity for BVR detection as it is designed primarily as a Lead-In Fighter Trainer in a way that the Philippine Air Force wants it.
Before proceeding to the main discussion of this topic, we may recommend everyone to read this article about The Role of FA-50PH as Both Trainer and Light Fighter on this website. It is worth taking note that the FA-50 obtains the potential to have such feature in each unit in terms of detection that the installation of Beyond Visual Range may enhance the performance of these birds in the process, even on the article aforementioned wherein the idea of having EL/M 2032 radars fitted on the jet is a good idea where it can support both Derby and Python missiles, the same munitions that can be found on the SPYDER Ground-Based Air Defense Systems which is the candidate for the project for ground-based air defense.
While that idea of streamlining logistics and enhancing capabilities for the FA-50PH or the T-50 Family of the Korean Aerospace Industries in terms of sensors may be interesting on its worth, the fact remains that these airframes lack the capacity for BVR detection as it is designed primarily as a Lead-In Fighter Trainer in a way that the Philippine Air Force wants it.
Nevertheless, this does not also mean dismissing this discussion about potentials altogether given the fact that such scenario may or may not take place in the future time, at the prerogative of the supplier or on the request of any of the end-users that such feature will be added on their respective aircraft for better results.
So, this discussion will aim more on what it will be for the FA-50s if it will be fitted with upgrades such as the Beyond Visual Range radar system. From there, details and ideas will be provided in which each point will be based on factual figures and data that will be gathered from notable outlets for us to see a clear image of possible outcomes.
THE NATURE OF BEYOND VISUAL RANGE CAPABILITY
This capability involves an aircraft that obtains advanced sensors that scan a wider area beyond the sight of the pilot together with a beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) that does the job of blasting out in the sky with the long-range being at the advantage.
In the photo above, the IAI Elta EL/M 2032 Fire Control Radar is an aircraft-oriented sensory system that is meant to work alongside fellow Israeli-made missiles such as the Derby Beyond Visual Range Air to Air Missile. Let us take note once again that this missile also serves as a munition in the SPYDER Ground-Based Missile System that the Philippine Air Force together with the Department of National Defense chooses to have for this project that will be operated under 780th GBADG.
To understand the concept, the example goes like this: An aircraft is part of a system which in the Philippines case will be the Philippine Air Defense System or PADS which aims to have that Area Awareness 1 status by the year 2028. Now, an aircraft interceptor such as an MRF or in this case, the FA-50PH will scramble in the event of an intrusion. Take note that in the usual situation, it involves a series of procedures or some doctrine-based rules of engagement to what proper actions that the pilot will take in situations like this so as not to create any mistakes that will spark any tensions.
So, this discussion will aim more on what it will be for the FA-50s if it will be fitted with upgrades such as the Beyond Visual Range radar system. From there, details and ideas will be provided in which each point will be based on factual figures and data that will be gathered from notable outlets for us to see a clear image of possible outcomes.
THE NATURE OF BEYOND VISUAL RANGE CAPABILITY
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| The Elta EL/M 2032 Fire Control Radar. It is an ideal sensory system for jets if it comes with Derby and Python Missiles as Munitions. Photo Source. |
In the photo above, the IAI Elta EL/M 2032 Fire Control Radar is an aircraft-oriented sensory system that is meant to work alongside fellow Israeli-made missiles such as the Derby Beyond Visual Range Air to Air Missile. Let us take note once again that this missile also serves as a munition in the SPYDER Ground-Based Missile System that the Philippine Air Force together with the Department of National Defense chooses to have for this project that will be operated under 780th GBADG.
To understand the concept, the example goes like this: An aircraft is part of a system which in the Philippines case will be the Philippine Air Defense System or PADS which aims to have that Area Awareness 1 status by the year 2028. Now, an aircraft interceptor such as an MRF or in this case, the FA-50PH will scramble in the event of an intrusion. Take note that in the usual situation, it involves a series of procedures or some doctrine-based rules of engagement to what proper actions that the pilot will take in situations like this so as not to create any mistakes that will spark any tensions.
Such a procedure may at times surpassed when a general conflict comes at play wherein these capabilities will put to the test. From there, here comes the measurement of the effectiveness of beyond visual range capability by obtaining the components that cover a wide range of areas for detection and missile payload delivery as designed by its manufacturer which also can be added by the skills and experience attained by the pilot. If all of the components such as the fire control radar (regardless if it is AESA or not), the missiles, and other systemic specifications at design are better than those of the enemy, then the odds prefer that aircraft that obtains such preferred components as they may detect targets earlier than its enemy.
The same goes in favor of the enemy if they have better BVR capabilities against the first. Supremacy by the distance of detection and missile strike is the main concept for Beyond Missile Range Combat, as modern combat defines the importance of systems especially the ones fitted in the aircraft that will define the outcome of the air battle to whether will it be a defeat or victory.
Aside from the sensors and missiles fitted in the aircraft, the network in itself is also vital where the situation for beyond visual range combat comes with complex ways of doing things. This document provided by the Brazilian Air Force on their assessment on beyond visual range combat, situational awareness, and complex decision-making measures shall obtain by pilots to have an accurate picture of the battlefield as well as to focus on their mission by determining which targets are given to be destroyed.
Moreover, data exchange is very essential on this matter where data links and continuous exchange of up-to-date between the aircraft and other units across the network like ground-based radar detection systems are needed for proper coordination which may lead to a better outcome wherein different units play their role within the system that aims to keep the airspace as much as secure as possible by keeping any intruders at bay, if not blasting them out of existence when deemed necessary.
THE REPORTS ON KAI UPGRADING FA-50s to Block 10 and 20 VARIANTS
Aside from the sensors and missiles fitted in the aircraft, the network in itself is also vital where the situation for beyond visual range combat comes with complex ways of doing things. This document provided by the Brazilian Air Force on their assessment on beyond visual range combat, situational awareness, and complex decision-making measures shall obtain by pilots to have an accurate picture of the battlefield as well as to focus on their mission by determining which targets are given to be destroyed.
Moreover, data exchange is very essential on this matter where data links and continuous exchange of up-to-date between the aircraft and other units across the network like ground-based radar detection systems are needed for proper coordination which may lead to a better outcome wherein different units play their role within the system that aims to keep the airspace as much as secure as possible by keeping any intruders at bay, if not blasting them out of existence when deemed necessary.
THE REPORTS ON KAI UPGRADING FA-50s to Block 10 and 20 VARIANTS
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| The KAI production line of its own products - from FA-50s to KUH-1 Surion Combat Utility Helicopters. From AINOnline Website. |
From its inception, the KAI FA-50s are only intended as designed where so far it received a positive reception from countries like the Philippines where they actually used it in actual combat which tested its capabilities for close air support roles.
And here is the recent news from AINOnline reporting of what it will be the development of the FA-50 Golden Eagle by KAI to become more sophisticated than the ones in the present service. This involves fitting the jets with the AN/AAQ-33 targeting pods from Lockheed Martin which are intended to increase accuracy for munitions aiming for ground-based targets, the same thing that the Philippines did in their FA-50PH against Maute-ISIS in the Marawi conflict.
This is expected as Korean Aerospace Industries projects additional orders from the Southeast Asian Region for years to come in terms of T-50 family purchases. In the Philippine context, original procurement plans called for at least 36 Light Combat Aircraft / Lead-in Fighter Trainer in the form of FA-50s, which will go alongside the original format of 48 Multirole Fighters as part of the 2028 Flight Plan.
And here is the recent news from AINOnline reporting of what it will be the development of the FA-50 Golden Eagle by KAI to become more sophisticated than the ones in the present service. This involves fitting the jets with the AN/AAQ-33 targeting pods from Lockheed Martin which are intended to increase accuracy for munitions aiming for ground-based targets, the same thing that the Philippines did in their FA-50PH against Maute-ISIS in the Marawi conflict.
This is expected as Korean Aerospace Industries projects additional orders from the Southeast Asian Region for years to come in terms of T-50 family purchases. In the Philippine context, original procurement plans called for at least 36 Light Combat Aircraft / Lead-in Fighter Trainer in the form of FA-50s, which will go alongside the original format of 48 Multirole Fighters as part of the 2028 Flight Plan.
Apparently, the upgrades will be introduced somewhere around two years from now as what the article suggests wherein at that period the MRF program will undertake production process already shall any decisions and contract to sign for that project will take place somewhere within the year 2019.
Nevertheless, the plans for that period may affect any future orders of additional FA-50s especially for the Philippine Air Force in a way that this will augment and complement the capabilities of the Multirole Fighters in a variable of missions such as Close Air Support Operations and air interdiction/intercept roles.
So, this development is something that needs a close watch for years to come so as the fact that the Korean Aerospace Industries introducing upgrades on their FA-50s definitely help a lot when it comes to the capabilities of Air Forces such as those of the Philippines where their assets simply become more effective when it comes to carrying out a duty when it is needed in a battlefield or in other roles that it is found suited.
Hence, things will remain to be seen to the progress that their development program will undertake as well as for the time period and future orders to carry out wherein doing so may mean additional sales pitch for their product that in the process benefit both the supplier and the buyer in a way that it only does not benefit the latter in the things aforementioned when it comes to its performance but also to the bagging of contracts which will propel the former to the new heights when it comes to profitability.
ON THE RECENT US-PHL AIR EXERCISE INVOLVING FA-50s
So, this development is something that needs a close watch for years to come so as the fact that the Korean Aerospace Industries introducing upgrades on their FA-50s definitely help a lot when it comes to the capabilities of Air Forces such as those of the Philippines where their assets simply become more effective when it comes to carrying out a duty when it is needed in a battlefield or in other roles that it is found suited.
Hence, things will remain to be seen to the progress that their development program will undertake as well as for the time period and future orders to carry out wherein doing so may mean additional sales pitch for their product that in the process benefit both the supplier and the buyer in a way that it only does not benefit the latter in the things aforementioned when it comes to its performance but also to the bagging of contracts which will propel the former to the new heights when it comes to profitability.
ON THE RECENT US-PHL AIR EXERCISE INVOLVING FA-50s
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| U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon egress mechanics pose alongside Philippine Air Force FA-50 egress mechanics upon completion of a subject matter expert exchange during Bilateral Air Contingent Exchange-Philippines (BACE-P) at Cesar Basa Air Base, Philippines, Jan. 22, 2019. From DVIDSHUB website. |
The FA-50PH proves a lot for the Philippine Air Force in a way that it can be seen as one of the avenues for improvement especially if it involves an exchange-exercise with another nation which is at the default ally that the country has like the United States.
On this report, as provided by DVIDS or Defense Visual Information and Distributions Service from the United States Armed Forces, the FA-50s were used by the Philippine Air Force along with their counterparts and their F-16s as platforms to conduct their activities ranging from air combat operations to systems mechanic such as the one depicted in the image above with an FA-50PH jet in the background.
From here, it is a nice, satisfiable thing especially for the FA-50PH being served as a platform for PAF to participate in such exercises given that this jet, although with a light combat trainer jet in nature still obtains that attribute that makes it an ideal thing to be a step platform before the pilots embark to the Multirole Fighter jets that the government and the Philippine Air Force aspires as they seek for a dozen units as part of the Horizon 2 initiative.
More unto this, there goes the plan for enhancing some of the FA-50PH where going along with what the Korean Aerospace Industries aspires is something that will make these lead-in fighter trainer assets more capable than ever, improving the performance of the Air Force as an organization as these assets will help provide the effectiveness in achieving the primary objectives.
In this case, perhaps this kind of exercise may help PAF in terms of acquiring knowledge in terms of adapting or understanding the use of Beyond Visual Range systems alongside other things that may be considered new capabilities of the organization such as air refueling. Perhaps time will come where these upgrades are already incorporated or the necessary material is already in the Air Force inventory. From there comes the desire to enhancing the performance of this military branch for the better.
IN SUMMARY
The Philippine Air Force presently obtains the FA-50s in ints inventory while the manufacturer, Korean Aerospace Industries is keen to introduce upgrades to their platforms in a way that they may market it to Southeast Asia like the Philippines sometime in the future.
From there alone comes the chance and as well the opportunity that these lead-in fighter trainers may gain sensors and firepower wherein it will become a more formidable player within the organization where its enhanced performance may help the organization improve its operations especially in combat.
On this report, as provided by DVIDS or Defense Visual Information and Distributions Service from the United States Armed Forces, the FA-50s were used by the Philippine Air Force along with their counterparts and their F-16s as platforms to conduct their activities ranging from air combat operations to systems mechanic such as the one depicted in the image above with an FA-50PH jet in the background.
From here, it is a nice, satisfiable thing especially for the FA-50PH being served as a platform for PAF to participate in such exercises given that this jet, although with a light combat trainer jet in nature still obtains that attribute that makes it an ideal thing to be a step platform before the pilots embark to the Multirole Fighter jets that the government and the Philippine Air Force aspires as they seek for a dozen units as part of the Horizon 2 initiative.
More unto this, there goes the plan for enhancing some of the FA-50PH where going along with what the Korean Aerospace Industries aspires is something that will make these lead-in fighter trainer assets more capable than ever, improving the performance of the Air Force as an organization as these assets will help provide the effectiveness in achieving the primary objectives.
In this case, perhaps this kind of exercise may help PAF in terms of acquiring knowledge in terms of adapting or understanding the use of Beyond Visual Range systems alongside other things that may be considered new capabilities of the organization such as air refueling. Perhaps time will come where these upgrades are already incorporated or the necessary material is already in the Air Force inventory. From there comes the desire to enhancing the performance of this military branch for the better.
IN SUMMARY
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| There are chances of incorporating T/X program developments to newer variants of the FA-50s, depending on the discretion of the manufacturer. Photo Source. |
From there alone comes the chance and as well the opportunity that these lead-in fighter trainers may gain sensors and firepower wherein it will become a more formidable player within the organization where its enhanced performance may help the organization improve its operations especially in combat.
Also, this will help the Philippine Air Force double its combat aircraft where this will help complement the Multirole Fighter Jet project that it is still on-going as of the present date and is now nearing the decision phase.
From there, the utilization of these jets may go further than its combat use on a battle like the ones in Marawi years ago. Hence, here goes the potential of the jet that can get improved as the years go by and it will benefit its users where aside from the Philippines includes Southeast Asian peers like Indonesia and Thailand.
Also on the part of the Korean Aerospace Industries, their efforts of upgrading their aircraft may be worth it once it attracts customers and ramps up orders which in turn makes more profit for the company to sustain its operations as well as its growth as a key player for the sale of defense hardware, an embodiment of an ever-growing Korean Defense Industry.
To wrap this up, it all remains to be seen to what direction this progress may take with regards to improving proven platforms such as the FA-50PH. Nevertheless, it may be said that the future is a bit bright here wherein the planning, ones it pushes through will be a win-win for all of those who are involved, especially the supplier and the end-user.
To wrap this up, it all remains to be seen to what direction this progress may take with regards to improving proven platforms such as the FA-50PH. Nevertheless, it may be said that the future is a bit bright here wherein the planning, ones it pushes through will be a win-win for all of those who are involved, especially the supplier and the end-user.
Hence, this is definitely something when it comes to garnering the necessary tools and pools of manpower, along with resources and organization for a country's armed force to grow. This, among others, are an effort to improve the overall national security situation that ensures peace among the citizenry.
it is best to upgrade to FA-50 BLOCK 2 at least 6 units of existing FA-50 .our PAF pilots will then have experienced BVR aim130C capability.
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