Brazil's ministry of defence is outlining a new procurement programme for the Brazilian air force that is essentially a resurrection of the country's much-delayed F-X fighter programme, most recently cancelled early last year.
Following the cancellation the Brazilian air force intended to relaunch its fighter acquisition plans in 2010. However, Venezuela's recent purchase of Sukhoi Su-30MKVs - of which the first six are due for delivery next month - has spurred the recently re-elected Lula da Silva government to review its 2005 decision, say industry sources.
Unlike the original F-X programme, the ministry of defence will perform an evaluation and make a selection without a bidding process. It is understood that the ministry of defence is setting a budget of around $1.25 billion and plans a final decision late next year or early 2008. Preliminary plans call for the acquisition of 24-26 aircraft to equip two squadrons in central and northern Brazil. It is understood that the Sukhoi Su-35 and Dassault Rafale are the leading contenders for the F-X requirement.
The ministry of defence is also examining the purchase of additional ex-French air force Mirage 2000C fighters.
Source: Flight International
