Quote:
Originally Posted by Alastor Mobius Toth
F-16 is physically smaller than F-14/15. So it *can't* be a heavy. It's logic.
As for TSF lifespan, it depends on how you look at it.
Operation-wise, TSF models seem to have less than 5 or so, given the technical advances. For example, MiG-27 was already outdated when it was produced, and Type-94 was getting outdated (by Japan's criteria anyway) by 2001 (which gives it around 7 years of operational life).
That said, most American and Soviet designs are generally pretty accepting or retrofits, meaning that F-15 get to live on as Strike Eagle, Silent Eagle and Active Eagle, all of which are superior to F-15C.
To summarize, most individual models will, generally, not last past the decade. However, the frames themselves can remain in use for longer, if they can be modified.
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Ok, but what about the service span. If I remember correctly, you wrote in "Comet" that some Super Hornet is even older than its pilot! Also, how much does it cost to modified a frame, then rolling it out for mass production? Pretty much, I guess.
Also, which is better: Active Eagle and Silent Eagle?