Embraer is reiterating its demand for a share of the Brazilian air force's next generation fighter programme, ahead of an anticipated contender shortlist and release of a request for proposals (RFP) in 1999.
The Brazilian Government has not yet stipulated the level of required local industrial participation, but this is expected to become clearer early in 1999 with the drawing up of a draft RFP. Embraer is lobbying Brasilia to be fully involved in the programme.
"The Brazilian air force would like to replace its fleet of air superiority fighters. This is a desire that would imply a fourth generation fighter. There are no final specifications or information on how it is to be purchased. We're struggling to be a part of this project," says Embraer president Mauricio Botelho.
He adds that the company remains open to co-operation, denying earlier reports that they had teamed with Saab. "There is no partnership with Saab or any other company," says Botelho. Any decision is likely to be tied to wider efforts to bolster its $1.5 billion annual turnover and global presence. "A strategic partner would strengthen our position," notes Botelho.
Brazil requires between 72 and 149 new fighters to replace initially its Dassault Mirage IIIs from 2005 onwards and later Northrop Grumman F-5E/Fs. In October, Brazil selected Elbit to upgrade the avionics of its F-5s as an interim solution.
The Brazilian FX evaluation is officially focused on at least seven types, following the release of a request for information in 1996. The three front runners are widely believed to be the BoeingF/A-18C/D, the British Aerospace/Saab Gripen and Lockheed Martin Block 50 F-16C/D. Other contenders include the Dassault 2000-5, Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon marketed by Alenia and MAPO's MiG-29.
The final selection is likely to be heavily influenced by the willingness of manufacturers to accede to Brazilian demands for source code access and local co-production.
Source: Flight International
