Of course, I'm always happy to be corrected. I looked at a largely low level attack profile (hence avoiding the need for escort) which suggests a max 350mn range according to public figures. If I'm wrong then mea culpa, but a medium level sortie in defended skies even with just a strong MANPADS threat seems very risky to me.
I also heard that the Konkan exercises in the Indian Ocean against the Indian Navy showed glaring gaps in the air defence capability of the fleet, with far too much emphasis placed on the T42 which simply could not cope. I won't spill the beans here, but the results were at the bottom end of expectations. Much arse scratching to be had, not least of which is how to defend the early warning assets, but the general view is that wheels have come off big time. Cause for major concern. I hate to say I told you so.
Last edited by Navaleye; 3rd Jul 2006 at 00:47.