With emerging Eurotrainer requirements and 2010 in-service date
much in mind, EADS in Germany is continuing long-term development
of its ambitious Mako next-generation advanced jet-trainer, lead-in
fighter trainer, and light combat aircraft project.
Mako was launched from an MoU signed between DASA and the United
Arab Emirates in 1999 "to elaborate opportunities for future
partnership in this project". It was then extended to include
the UAE's Al Ain University, its Gulf Aircraft Maintenance Company,
and Higher College of Technology.
MoUs for Mako component contributions have now also been agreed
with 12 international companies, among which are APPH Precision
Hydraulics, Autoflug, BAE Systems Controls, BGT/Diehl, Computing
Devices, Fairey Hydraulics, Flight Visions, Rockwell Collins and
the SNECMA group. Military funding priorities have limited the
UAE's available allocations, so additional partners are being
sought to help spread the estimated $1.415 billion R&D and
program costs.
Last December, General Electric's F414-GE-400 turbofan was selected
as Mako's powerplant. EADS Military Aircraft has signed an exclusive
teaming agreement with GE Aircraft Engines for the Mako family's
Definition Phase, expected to continue through 2004. GE and EADS
will work together to complete technical definition of the aircraft,
its sub-systems and F414M installation. Specifications, certification
and maintenance plans, and other necessary documentation will
be defined in preparation for launch of the Mako's Development
Phase.
Mako will be available as a tandem-seat transonic trainer with
a derated F414M, limited special-to-type equipment, and only simulated
weapon delivery capability, or as a single-seat Mach 1.5 multirole
light (13-tonne) combat aircraft with full 22,000 pounds thrust
engine output. Featuring stealth technologies-including airframe
profiling and composite materials-for a low radar signature, Mako
will incorporate fly-by-wire controls and advanced digital mission
systems avionics.
Armament options will include an internal 27mm cannon, helmet-mounted
sight/display, and provision for a wide range of external stores
on seven pylons, while an air-refueling probe and systems may
also be installed. With claimed low procurement and life-cycle
costs, the Mako light combat version currently appears to be EADS'
main marketing priority. It is seen as a low-cost complement to
the Eurofighter, while incorporating some of its advanced technologies,
including direct voice control.
At the Farnborough Air Show last year, EADS director military
aircraft series production programs, Erwin Obermeier, said, "Much
time, effort and money has already been invested into this project.
Mako definition studies are almost concluded, and selection of
main suppliers and partners is progressing". He said wind-tunnel
tests had confirmed that Mako would have outstanding flight performance,
and could match most fourth-generation fighters in terms of specific
excess power, high-alpha maneuvers and turn rates.
From in-house surveys and independent market studies, EADS is
convinced that there will be a clear potential for up to 2,500
modern light fighters/advanced trainers between 2005-2025, within
the accessible export market. "With the Mako concept, we
will have a real edge on the competitors" claimed Obermeier.
