Mix that with the HMCS those boys were toting toward the end, and you think twice about getting into the visual. So what if the Cat couldn't turn, provide wings inside had a functioning neck the front hemisphere would be a risky place.
Same would apply to the GR9.
HOWEVER, without a proper AD radar, proper datalink, a big fox 3 stick and supersonic block 4 capability, you do not have a modern fighter. FACT.
So, silly arguments that the GR9 could have been viable are really straw-clutching. TBH, the SHAR had 3 out of 4 so was monumentally surprised that it died out of JFH those many years ago.
IMHO, it's a shade easier to turn a fighter into a reasonable bomber/CAS platform by strapping on a pod and a 1760 databus, than it is to put in a radar, and better donks.
Oh well, roll on JCA, whoever operates it.