Singapore Closest to Finalizing Future Fighter Preference

After China's acquisition of Sukhoi Su-27/30s, and South Korea's decision late last year to defer its choice of next-generation combat aircraft, among Pacific Rim countries Singapore is perhaps closest to finalizing its preference for a future fighter. Initial responses to formal Requests for Information issued last December are currently expected from six of the main international military aircraft contenders.

In addition to Eurofighter, which is being marketed in Singapore by BAE Systems, tenders were expected from the end of this month for the Boeing F-15E and F/A-18E/F; Dassault Rafale; Lockheed Martin Block 60 F-16C/D; and Sukhoi Su-35. From Requests for Proposals anticipated by the end of this year, down-selection is reportedly planned in late 2003, leading to contract award by mid-2004, and possible initial operational capability in Singapore by early 2007.

Singapore Air Force new fighter requirements have been mooted initially as up to 20 aircraft, with possible follow-on options. These would begin replacing the SAF's 70 or so now ageing MDC A/TA-4SU Skyhawks, for a program cost of around $1 billion or more. This represents a massive investment for a nation of only about 3.5 million people, but Singapore's economy is still experiencing growth, although at a lower rate than in the past decade. Defense budget expenditure is pitched at a high 6% of Singapore's gross domestic product.

From original offset requirements for around 30% of contract value, Singapore is apparently now seeking unspecified industrial participation and technology transfer returns for its swing-role air superiority/air-to-surface fighter program. BAE Systems' offer includes all these requirements through partnership participation in the Eurofighter Typhoon program, and its ongoing development, through a long-term sustainable relationship. BAE Systems' bid is for a total package to RAF standards, including integration for such weapons as MBDA's ASRAAM and Meteor BVRAAM, Raytheon AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9L/M Sidewinder, as well as Brimstone and Storm Shadow short-range attack and long-range cruise missiles.

The U.K. group is already involved in joint-venture partnerships with Singapore Technologies Engineering, notably including its proposed F-16 avionics upgrade, and past participation, through the former GEC Marconi, in similar modernization of Singapore Air Force Puma helicopters. Co-operation has also been achieved in such other fields as composite structures and battlefield simulation technologies, plus unmanned air vehicle research.

Now nearing initial deliveries to the RAF's Operational Evaluation Unit in June or July, the Eurofighter is not appearing in the flesh at the Asian Aerospace show. However, flight demonstrations are being made at Changi by BAE Systems' test pilot Gordon McClymont in the time-honored Hawk demonstrator ZJ100. This started life as a Mk 102, but has recently been upgraded with new software and cockpit equipment to approximately the standard of Australia's Mk 127 lead-in fighter (LIF).

Upgraded Hawk LIFTs (lead-in fighter/trainers) are being offered to several Asian countries, including some already operating earlier examples. The Singapore Air Force is already familiar with the type from the recent graduation of its first students on the Hawk 115s of the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program. Hawk training of another four SAF pilots is also well advanced in Canada.

In another major Singapore procurement program, RFPs have been issued for eight new shipborne helicopters to equip its "La Fayette"-class frigates. Short-listed types include the Eurocopter AS532SC Cougar Mk 2+, NFH 90 and Sikorsky S-70 Seahawk, from which selection is expected within the coming year. Further procurement is being considered of the same selected type, to replace approximately 20 AS 322M Super Pumas operated from some half-dozen amphibious landing ships. Upgrades or replacements are also being considered for the SAF's four Group 0 E-2C Hawkeyes, which have been in service since 1987, for AEW and surveillance roles.

By John Fricker