Sukhoi PAK FA T-50 First Test Flight Full Video
Russia has conducted the first flight test of the PAK FA or T-50 fifth generation fighter aircraft. The full video of the flight test is available here.
Global Security org has a useful short primer on the T-50.
Moscow claims that the T-50 is on a par with the US F-22 Raptor. Reports suggest that the global financial crisis has not unduly affected the Russian military-industrial complex; in fact external demand for Russian hardware is exceeding supply.
According to the primer,
...The new fighter is intended to be about the same size as the US F-35 JSF, with a primary air superiority mission and ground attack and reconnaissance being secondary missions...
...The aircraft was to feature a long combat radius, supersonic cruise speed, low radar cross section, supermaneuverability, and the ability to make short takeoffs and landings...
Thought I would just post this while I'm hangin' out for the 2010 QDR. It's due, like, right now.
I notice also that the US moved a step closer towards the sale of the M777 155m Howitzer to India, including the associated sophisticated fire support package. It is reported that the M777 will enhance India's ability to bring firepower to bear in difficult conditions and that it will also enhance interoperability with the US Army. Recently Indian and US ground forces engaged in their first joint maneuvers.
Interesting one two from Washington; big arms deal to Taiwan and this little deal on the side.
We notice the Taiwan deal, but I bet the PLA has also noticed the Howitzer. Oh, so has, surely, Pakistani Army HQ.
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Marko is also interested in philosophy, especially the theory of knowledge, and science, especially physics, and considers himself to work within the naturalist and enlightenment tradition. He is writing a book on nuclear terrorism.