Back Story:in 2012, the Royal Genovian Air Force launched a tender to replace various types of aircraft, operated by its 75th Fighter Squadron (The Vikings). the requirement calls for a 5th Generation aircraft with a long range/endurance, high maneuvrability, stealth and a heavy weapons payload. the plan is to buy 6 to 8 aircraft.
at this moment, 4 aircraft are currently under evaluation, these are the Sukhoi T-50 PAK-FA, Lockheed F-22A Raptor, Northrop-Grumman F-23C Black Widow II and the Boeing F-15SE Silent Eagle. an option on 8 Gripen E/F is also under concideration, if the budget does not allow the requirement.
Sukhoi is currently the favorite in the competition, Rosboronexport, in cooperation with IAI and Thales, is currently offering a westernized version of the PAK-FA with Full NATO compatibility and western weapons integration (AIM-9X, AIM-120C/D, SDB, JDAM, Paveway,...). with many restrictions being applied to the US platforms, the T-50 (service designation Su-45) currently has an advantage in terms of tech transfer, joint development and costs.
a final desision is expected to be made in 2015/16.
the model depicts how the T-50 would look if it is to be selected for the requirement.
kit: Revell 1/72 Sukhoi T-50
decals: Kit + homemade
