From Zero to Hero: The Light Combat Aircraft

摘要

T-X is likely to radically change the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) landscape, and will undercut the cost of any serious western competition. MT looks at how and why. Last September, the Boeing-Saab partnership won the USAF's U$9.2 billion T-X trainer contract, covering up to 351 jets and 46 simulators. Such economies of scale mean the aircraft's likely unit price is under $20 million. We are likely to see a lighter fighter version too, with a radar, air-to-air missile (AAM) and/or gun, and a beefed-up attack version that would add modern precision guided munitions. With a two-man aircrew, the CAS workload can be shared, and five hardpoints allow for a targeting pod to occupy the centreline station. Targeting pods identify then guide smart munitions on to a target using a built-in laser-a useful ability when working with Joint Terminal Air Controllers (JTAC), who could receive downlinked images on their ROVER terminal from the overhead aircraft, then pinpoint the area to be attacked or investigated.