Joint Strike Fighter, a good choice?
On Wednesday 22 May, Dr Hans Heerkens gave a lunchtime lecture on the JSF, the Joint Strike Fighter. The topic was the acquisition of a new fighter aircraft for the Netherlands. After first briefly discussing the possible candidates, the technical aspects were discussed in more detail and compared with other fighter jets.
To make a good choice, the first thing to consider is what the Netherlands needs these fighter jets for. Some scenarios were discussed. From small operations to existential wars, where losses are more likely to be allowed than in one-off operations. The JSF will have to succeed the F-16, and should be able to last 40 years before being replaced. The JSF is primarily capable of attacking ground targets, and although it can defend itself in the air against other enemy aircraft, it will not easily win an aerial battle. However, the JSF is difficult to see on radars, this is not only due to its shape which makes it reflect radar waves in limited directions, but also its own emitted radar radiation. The radar is unique compared to other fighters, as it is much more beamy, making it less likely to be noticed by enemies.
Another big plus is that the JSF can carry its weapons internally, which saves a lot in air resistance. Another unique point is that the pilot can look in all directions and see everything depicted on his visor by means of cameras incorporated all around in the aircraft. This allows the pilot to look through the floor, so to speak, to see what is below him. So there are many other aspects that factor into this difficult choice. Hans Heerkens' conclusion was that the JSF is the best option for the Netherlands.
The lecture was very well attended and there were also plenty of questions from the packed auditorium. Why it is not possible to purchase different types? This is politico-economically unfeasible, according to Heerkens. The cost of a fighter jet is not small and varies heavily with the type of aircraft. Especially if you want to buy several types, this becomes far too expensive. And besides: if you want to save money, you just shouldn't want to buy a fighter jet
Hans Heerkens gives a lecture on aviation every year for KIVI NIRIA. If you found this lecture interesting, keep an eye on our site, because there will be another one next year!
Description
Joint Strike Fighter, a good choice for the Netherlands?
In a decade or so, the Royal Air Force's F-16 fighter aircraft will be at the end of their technical lifespan. Choosing a successor is a technically and politically sensitive issue. The air force is opting for the US F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). But that aircraft is becoming increasingly expensive and its development is encountering technical problems.
Is it really the right aircraft for the armed forces of the future?
Might it be better to buy a European aircraft, such as the French Rafale or the Swedish Gripen?
The question, however, is whether those aircraft are as cheap as they seem, and whether we can use them for as long as the JSF. Billions are involved, so numerous parties; politicians, business, military and civilians, have an opinion on it.
On Wednesday 22 May, Hans Heerkens (MB) will review the JSF and other candidates for the Dutch billion-dollar order during a current affairs lecture. He will also address the question of what kind of fighter aircraft the Netherlands needs and take a critical look at the decision-making process so far. Both technology and politics are discussed.
Speaker(s)
Dr Hans Heerkens, assistant professor at University of Twente (fac. MB)
Location
OH-115
Organiser
KIVI Students Twente
Aerospace Engineering
Name and contact details for information
Elfride Dijkstra