Originally Posted by
Woodsman
My point is simple.
If we chose a new fighter platform today how long would it take to be in place at the squadron level?
First off a contract would have to be negotiated.
Would we jump to the front of the line delivery wise. Not likely.
How long to upgrade our technicians (airframe, avionics, safety systems and weapons) to the new equipment? Again it would also include time waiting on the planes to arrive to give them experience with the platform.
Time to select and source flight simulators also has to be factored in.
How long for our pilots to transition in to the new platform. Again we would need planes and simulators first before getting to this.
For both the technicians & pilots we would also have to train the trainers first.
None of this can even begin to start until the platform is selected.
How long before the logistical system would be ready to support the new planes? Again this would take time.
So yes lead time wouldn't be minimal.