The Advanced Technology Group/Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) team developing the Javelin very light jet/military trainer has released first cost estimates for the type, ahead of the planned first flight of a prototype between January and May 2005, writes Arie Egozi.
Forecasting a demand for 500 low-cost trainers from 2010-18, IAI says the future military version of the Javelin will have a fully equipped unit cost of $6-7 million, with its targeted per-hour operating cost set at $800. This compares with the civil version's planned $2.5-3 million price tag and $420/h operating cost, says IAI vice-president Menahem Shmul. The military project could be launched in 2006, he says, with initial talks already having taken place with several prospective customers.
IAI hopes to secure the Israeli air force as a launch operator for the military Javelin, with the service having unsuccessfully sought a replacement for its locally built CM170 Zukit (Magister) trainers for several years. The company believes the low-cost Javelin could replace both the Zukit and McDonnell Douglas A-4 Skyhawks in use at the Israeli air force's flight academy.
Several design changes are being studied for the military-optimised Javelin, Shmul told Flight International last month. These include replacement of current Williams International FJ33-4 engines to enable it to achieve a maximum speed of M0.92 at altitude and 500kt (925km/h) at low level. It will also need redesigned engine intakes, a modified aft fuselage, ejection seats and improved cockpit avionics.
IAI plans to manufacture the military version of the Javelin at its Lahav division, with the final production split to be determined before the launch of series manufacturing activities.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY CRAIG HOYLE IN LONDON
Source: Flight International
