http://www.sundaytimes.lk/070513/Columns/sitreport.html
Since SLAF pilots are not trained to fly MiG 29s, a package with the Ukrainian supplier is expected to be a conditional wet lease. That is to include Ukranian pilots until such time their local counterparts are qualified to fly the jet fighter.
It was from Ukraine that the Government concluded the controversial deal to procure four MiG -27 aircraft last year. The four aircraft which were reported to be completely overhauled were delivered to the SLAF. Recently two of them were listed as unserviceable.
Aviation experts and some senior Air Force officials are sceptical about the total effectiveness of the MiG-29s to meet the threats posed by light aerobatic aircraft built in the Czech Republic. They liken it to something like killing a fly with a sledgehammer.
They point out that the MiG-29s have been manufactured to engage fighter aircraft of similar capability. Hence, MiG 29s have not been used in any theatre of combat anywhere in the world to attack non-combat light aircraft by any conventional Air Force in the world. 'It's like using a brand new Mercedes Benz to knock down a Bullock Cart,' says a serving Air Force flyer who did not wish to be identified. He says that the Russian built MiG-29 is speedy and well equipped for air-to-air combat which the Tiger guerrillas are incapable of.
Confusion everywhere! Edited By - chinthanaya - 13 May 2007 00:41:07 GM |