The Brazilian air force has received a barrage of unsolicited proposals this month offering options for an interim fighter replacement, but still has not defined how it plans to replace the aborted F-X BR competition.
Brazil's known options for used aircraft are now understood to include updated Dassault Mirage 2000s, Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs with a mid-life update, Northrop F-5s and Saab/BAE Systems JAS39 Gripens.
The Dutch air force last week submitted a proposal to sell Brazil its surplus F-16s, says Lt Col Robert Meeng, the service's surplus equipment project officer. The submitted package would include a strong support commitment for used aircraft. The Dutch would provide initial training for Brazilian maintenance personnel and continue to help them for two to three years, says Meeng.
The Dutch are also trying to keep pace with the competition on cost. Brazillian newspapers last week disclosed apparent plans by the French government to offer 12 used Mirage 2000s for $5 million each. "We are cheaper than that," says Meeng.
Source: Flight International
