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Russian New-Generation Fighter Plane Set 2012 Deadline
Moscow (RIA Novosti) Nov 05, 2007 Russia's new-generation fighter plane, currently being jointly developed with India, will make its maiden flight no later than in 2012, a senior Air Force official said on Tuesday. Russia and India signed an agreement on cooperation in the development and production of an advanced multi-purpose fighter aircraft on October 18. "The deadlines have been set - it [the fighter] must take to the skies in 2012 and enter service [with the Air Force] in 2015," said Lt. Gen. Igor Sadofyev, deputy commander of the Russian Air Force. The general said Russian-Indian cooperation on the project would significantly boost its development. "International cooperation and joint development efforts will certainly expedite the process," Sadofyev said. "It's a path the whole world is taking nowadays, and we are no exception." He also said the Air Force was planning to procure at least six to eight Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft every year, starting from 2008. "Russia's Air Force desperately needs the Su-34s," the general said. "I would prefer to re-equip at least two air regiments every year - that is, 48 aircraft," Sadofyev said. "Unfortunately, this is financially impossible at present, but it is perhaps we will get six to eight planes annually". The $36 million Su-34 fighter-bomber is a two-seat strike aircraft equipped with twin AL-31MF afterburning turbojet engines. It is designed to deliver high-precision strikes on heavily-defended targets under any weather conditions, day or night, and fields weaponry that includes a 30mm GSh-301 cannon, up to 12 Alamo or Archer AAMs, ASMs, and bombs. Designed by the Sukhoi, the Su-34s will replace the Su-24 Fencer frontline bombers. Experts said the new bomber has the potential to become the top plane in its class for years to come.
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Large Crowd Gathers For First Air And Space Expo
Holloman AFB NM (AFNS) Nov 02, 2007An estimated 85,000 air and space enthusiasts attended the 2007 Holloman Air and Space Expo here Oct. 26 to 28. "This was the first ever live-fly air and space show in the nation," said Brig. Gen. David Goldfein, the 49th Fighter Wing commander. "It was the first time to bring together air and space in a way that's very personal to the public." The expo was a showcase of Air Force capabilities and the 49th Fighter Wing. It also was a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Air Force and the 50th anniversary of space flight. |
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