Philip wrote:That's a good point but from regular info being divulged, we've developed a range of composite materials, etc. which could be used extensively on the MK-2.With fuselage tweaking reqd. for accommodating a larger engine, the shaping of the nose could perhaps be altered as in the AMCA models. The Russians are supposed to be using some 5th-gen tech on their SU-35s too.There was also earlier reports about LCA intakes requiring redesigning.There is enough time to undertake some work on the same and make use of the opportunity.In any case, Mk-1A production is goinv to be with us for at least 5 years before MK-2 is fit for production.
What you propose is possible if IAF takes full control of project and gets involved deeply in its development, like US, Russia, China, or even Pakistan. Unfortunately, that is not the case in India. IAF acts more like a customer than a developer(it's not entirely their fault. Their mandate is defined in such a way and the govt needs to take steps to change this.) If ADA decides to include some stealth features, then there will always be the question of 'not enough stealth'. Costs will rise because of stealth features. People will start comparing it with F-35 and find out all the ways it falls short. Then someone will say, 'it's a three legged cheetah. Range isn't enough, power is low, Even the stealth doesn't work. '
Incremental development is good but Indian military industrial complex doesn't seem to have reached a point where it would be successful. What we need right now is small, achievable goals which are attained in a reasonable timeline to establish credibility, capacity and improve confidence in home grown systems. Moonshots can wait.