Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Sounds like a good idea. Go ahead and do it.

troopie

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Gets my vote too :up:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The problem is I need to check every scenario ( there are 14 that do ) and every campaign ( checking that is a BIT more complicated ) to see if they are used and if so, make adjustments to every one of them right from repurchasing the unit and checking if it had assigned targets before being removed and replace and noting where that is and when, Just ripping things out without doing that generates "bug" reports I don't want or need and then there will be the inevitable "BUG!" reports from players who don't follow the forums or read the release notes " Why doesn't the US have gunships anymore ????"

So this *idea* is far from being a "done deal"

As well they don't have stay "green" in a game or scenario. Just buy them from the Green OOB as captured and they will use the USA EXP and MOR values and ID tag. The same thing goes for the German units in the SPWW2 Blue OOB

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Has my Vote too.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Sounds good

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

It seems there will be finally a plane to replace these cancelled EF2000s at the Greek OOB:

https://www.dassault-aviation.com/en...nd-the-rafale/

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

let me know when they are delivered......

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Quotes taken from Ref. 1 Others support Ref. 1.

I've been saying and posting for years now, that the F-35 series is not operational for a large number of reasons. I have also pointed out one of the biggest and most important reasons, it wasn't was because the "Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS), which manages prognostics, maintenance, supply chain, flight operations and training" for the aircraft had very serious problems associated with it to where the F-35 series wasn't even able to carry all the weapons it was designed for due to "conductivity" issues even down to receiving the proper parts to support them.

As of January 2020..."ALIS had become notorious for problems. In January, the US Government Accountability Office said in a report that the system had 4,700 open deficiencies. Those issues included inaccurate or missing data, challenges deploying the system, a need for more personnel than anticipated, an inefficient issue resolution process, poor user experience, immature applications and ineffective training, the report said."

I have posted on the next for the last couple of years or more..."Operational Data Integrated Network (ODIN) hardware, an initial step in replacing the stealth fighter’s troubled support system."

As the article points out the USMC will be the first to OPEVAL and work out the bugs that might remain in the system.

First F-35B flew with ODIN on 09 OCT. 2020.

So with quotes from the article included above I end with the BEST FOC DATE SO FAR for the F-35 which happens to be close to my predicted earliest date of mid-2023 for FOC.

I cannot emphasize how important ODIN is to the FOC of the F-35. Except to resubmit the DID status article if available.
"ODIN is to replace the F-35’s Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS), which manages prognostics, maintenance, supply chain, flight operations and training for the aircraft. ODIN is not expected to reach full operational capability until December 2022."

And that realistically puts FOC for the F-35 in 2023 earliest.

Emphasis on the "not expected to" part, but it's better then what we've ever had since the initial predictions of FOC.
https://www.flightglobal.com/militar...ontent=defence
https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/201...8661571672219/
https://taskandpurpose.com/military-...iciencies-2020
https://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-20-339#summary

The DID article is unavailable at this time I imagine it might be getting updated.

Before I forget, no word from NAVAIR on FOC for the F-35B/C. And we've already had the discussion concerning what NAVAIR is in charge of as my "Marine Buddy" can verify.
https://www.navair.navy.mil/

I forgot to add the NAVAIR site when originally posted.

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

OK, so we won't see FOC in the US Air Force or US Navy till apx. 2023 Both of which have FAR more aircraft to manage then the USMC and for different reasons REQUIRE a fully operational logistic chain. Naval procurement has to support ships where you can't just deliver replacement parts willy-nilly. And the USAF just plain doesn't do anything "on a shoestring".

The USMC on the other hand is rather use to operating with limited logistic support, already has, and has used on combat, F-35Bs.

So I'll propose the following:
Unit# 583 F-35C Ltng II - Dates 1/123-12/125
Unit# 584 F-35C Ltng II - Dates 1/123-12/125
Unit# 585 F-35B Ltng II - Dates 1/123-12/125
Unit# 587 EF-35C Ferret - Dates 1/123-12/125
Unit# 940 E/A-18G Growler - Dates 7/109-12/122

The rest stays as is (with 7/118-12/125 dates). This eliminates all F-35Cs from the OOB till 2023 as well as the most "high tech" F-35 variant (which is based on the F-35C).

Sound good Don?

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Suhiir,
With all due respect, I would ask you to maintain UNIT #940 until DEC 2025. I base this on the following article from DID concerning the EA-18G "GROWLER" for another upgrade to that jet by adding a "NEXT GEN JAMMER" with an estimated completion date of SEP 2021. It's not going anywhere soon by my best guess.
https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com...growler-02427/
https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/Con...ticle/2357052/
(See "NAVY" section Para 6, I believe.)

Also the F/A-18EF also lookS to be safe as well past 2025. We've been ramping up production of them to meet domestic (New birds.) and foreign evaluations and possible sales as the lead article is showing concerning Finland.
https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com...ntracts-06392/

As you can see both articles are "locked" due to them having been updated first for subscribers. Should be available in a few days or less to us mortals.

What the USN/USMC is doing for HORNET, the USAF is doing for the F-15. From the 15 OCT edition (Just click on that date on the calendar.)...

"The US Air Force’s Air Combat Command has approved external link the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II for F-15E operational flights. The press release from Eglin Air Force Base says the weapon is expected to be field on the F/A-18E/F later this year. The GBU-53B StormBreaker, which entered operational testing in 2018, is a small diameter bomb that features a multimode seeker to guide the weapon with infrared, millimeter-wave radar and semi-active lasers in addition to or with GPS and inertial system guide. The Air Force’s fielding decision means F-15E squadrons can now be equipped with the weapon. The Navy and Marines intend to use it on their versions of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter."
Also...
https://www.eglin.af.mil/News/Articl...erational-use/
https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com...etition-06510/ As linked from the above.

As the name "implies" a "bad day" for the intended target. :p

Also for further backing...
I turn to SWITZERLAND and "to be clear" these are just offerings to fulfill their Air2030 Program.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...to-switzerland

You gotta move fast out here but, at times I feel like a "one armed juggler" I'm monitoring as much as I can. If only some of you can see my folders, you'd understand.

But for I'll grade myself with an E-M-G-MOE Mood Meter as...:D.

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Fastboat,

My current understanding is the USMC wants to completely transition to the F-35 ASAP for the sake of simplifying their logistic requirements. The F-35B will replace all Harrier squadrons and some F/A-18 ones. They'll acquire a limited number of F-35Cs mostly due to their larger internal ordnance capacity and the fact that the USN plans to use more F-35Cs then Bs for the same reason (internal "stealth" ordnance capacity) and the pilot exchange between USN/USMC means many USN squadrons have a USMC pilot and most USMC one have a USN one so the USMC needs pilots familiar with the F-35C. Additionally one of the squadrons aboard one of the currently deployed carriers is frequently a USMC squadron.

The USN plans to keep, and upgrade, some of their F/A-18Es/Fs as they're a better air superiority platform then the F-35, and having an intact carrier to land on is kind of important. The USMC isn't really concerned with seizing air superiority only maintaining it (it's expected the USAF/USN will achieve it before they go ashore, because without it they can't). The USMC Air Wings exist solely to provide ground support and necessary escort/EW/refueling/ect. functions.

As to the E/A-18G Growler and EF-35C Ferret it doesn't make sense for the USMC to maintain 3x F-18 squadrons when the rest have transitioned to F-35s. And it wouldn't be the first time the USN "allowed" the USMC to work the bugs out of an aircraft before the USN adopts it. So while it may (or may not) take longer to get the F-35G operational then the F-35C they'll be USN/USMC only as far as I know because the USAF plans to use only the F-35A.

OF COURSE all this is plans and programs until NAVAIR speaks, and plans may change for any number of reasons (practical and political).

You'll note from your references there are no plans to certify the USMCs F/A-18Cs/Ds with the SDB, no real reason to as they'll be replaced ASAP. Also the USMC has not budgeted any $ for upgrading their current F/A-18Cs/Ds.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I would reread Para. 5 of Post #560 again. Also taken from the Elgin AB (The USAF Weapons Test Center and Range. Where we launched our TLAM-C's to targets at that range to validate the operational use of the VLS onboard.) USAF press release dated 13 Oct. 2020 with the following quote...

"The program plans to begin fielding on the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet later this year followed by integration on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
(And as you know, by extension (NAVAIR) means the USMC as well.)

SBD II is a joint-interest Air Force and Navy major acquisition program. The Armament Directorate’s Miniature Munitions Division here serves as the acquisition lead in partnership with Raytheon Missiles and Defense."
https://www.eglin.af.mil/News/Articl...erational-use/

Also at the very top of the below ref. under topic "Latest Update from 15 Oct 2020 I again quote...

"October 15/20: F-15E Operational Flights The US Air Force’s Air Combat Command has approved external link the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II for F-15E operational flights. The press release from Eglin Air Force Base says the weapon is expected to be field on the F/A-18E/F later this year. The GBU-53B StormBreaker, which entered operational testing in 2018, is a small diameter bomb that features a multimode seeker to guide the weapon with infrared, millimeter-wave radar and semi-active lasers in addition to or with GPS and inertial system guide. The Air Force’s fielding decision means F-15E squadrons can now be equipped with the weapon. The Navy and Marines intend to use it on their versions of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter."

So fielded on the F/A-18E/F by the end of this year.

And the USN/USMC also intends to use it on their respective F-35's (Which as already posted are not ready.)
https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com...etition-06510/

This should've not been this hard.

Mountains were great!! Had fun and decent weather!! Back at it today to start a very tough 2 day work week!?! :cool:

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I'm not going to touch anything ATM... come the end of Febuary you two can thrash out your best guess and I'll decide what I'm going to do....but right now that is nada

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I did, why I pointed out the F/A-18C/D was not on the list the SDB is to be certified for. As to the existing use on the EF-35C Ferret (starting in 2018) it's not worth creating a new unit for a 2-year time period and YES the E/A-18G Growler could be extended till the end of 2020 and the the EF-35C Ferret incorporated, I may consider that.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Suhiir,
I will first start with an apology to concerning your last post. I misinterpreted the point you were making.

But know me better than most, so you know once a topic has got my attention, I just keep on digging. Most of the information is very current or better. Most of it also comes from the USMC. And the rest from the USN and USAF. The rest is from closely related sources.

Right now I'll simply address the EA-18G "GROWLER". But we have to go back a couple of years first.

The last Combat Aerial EW platform the USMC operated was the EA-6B "PROWLER". Even as the USMC decided to "Sundown" the plane, it was still considered one of the best "EW" platforms in the world.

Sundown occurred on 08 March 2019 for the last SQD. to operate the EA-6B. I believe we discussed this at the time.
https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/new...al-deployment/
https://news.usni.org/2019/03/08/mar...owler-squadron

So that leaves the question, what did the USMC replace it with?

Well I can tell you, the USMC didn't replace it with the EA-18G "GROWLER".

So if you have a Marine version in the OOB you can safely DELETE it.

There is ONLY one operator of that plane in the U.S. Armed Forces, and that service is the USN. And the USN is keeping that plane, as I've already posted recently, well past 2025.

My Marine friend, will know well the who, what and where the following ref. is. Also this is to be considered under the "current or better" as noted above.

Also before I post it, I will quote from the last sentence...
"The F-35C is expected to declare IOC in August 2018 (Actually that happened a little later, IOC was declared on 28 Feb 2019 notice the trend here!?!).
https://news.usni.org/2019/02/28/nav...strike-fighter

Now for the rest of the sentence as follows...
FOC is expected for both variants (F-35B/C as I realize not everyone will read the full para.) in the late 2020’s."
https://www.candp.marines.mil/Progra...-Lightning-II/

I know the standard I try hard to hold myself to, and am expected by many out here to do the same, for equipment, Full Operating Capability (FOC), Fielded, Inducted and similar descriptions, depending on what part of the world we're talking about.

And NOT for the following, Entered Mass Production, Contract signed, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed, Operational Evaluation (OPEVAL), Initial Operating/Operational Capability (IOC) and my all-time favorite, I read it somewhere.

My perspective only, how much more legitimate pieces of equipment that's out there could Don and I have gotten into the game over these "how many years" if it wasn't for ALL the equipment we've had to fix in the OOB's because of that last para above?

And again you don't have to look any further then last years submissions.

It is sad as I posted a couple of weeks back when I checked my old FIREFOX file, cleaned it up, got down to simple equipment issues thinking I'd be pretty much just cleaning out that file and deleting it, until, I opened the first 2 that were from 2014/2015, checked the OOB's, and can you guess what I found?

They weren't even in them. That to me was both frustrating but even more just plain sad.

I'll be glad when 2026 arrives and I submit my last submission(s) but, until then I just want to do it right and walk away with head up and my integrity intact that's for here and when I leave my job shortly after that.

We have the best wargames of the type out here and speaking for myself, I want to keep it that way.

Nothing in life comes easy, I don't think we were born with a "silver spoon" in our mouths, anywhere else, well it'd just be painful. All we can do is "shift around" be diligent, patient and work hard. And if you're lucky, you just might find that "silver spoon" made it to your mouth after all!?!

On second thought, I'll just pass on that last part. ;)

I'll post the rest later today or tomorrow and I insist as I spent a lot of time with this in regards to staying/getting with military sources on this issue(s).

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

ACK!

I knew the EA-6B was stood down (more due to airframe fatigue then any desire to replace it I believe) in 3/2019, I also knew the USN replaced it with the EA-18G. I ASSUMED the USMC had done the same.

Since the USMC OOB already includes several USN only aircraft the fact that they're not flown by USMC pilots is irrelevant for OOB purposes.

But as one article pointed out, this does leave the USA in a pickle as far as SEAD aircraft goes. You may want to look into the F-4G Advanced Wild Weasel and F-16CJ/DJ.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Do not feel bad about the USMC F/A-18G situation. I thought they had them as well, it would've been a "natural" extension or "route" to replace the venerable EA-6B "PROWLER". The date I gave in my last post was for when the USMC retired the EA-6B planes they flew.

They USN retired theirs roughly two years prior when fleet levels for the F/A-18G "GROWLERS" was achieved to allow for the "sundown" of the USN versions.

Ironically that's also about the time when the USMC "sunset" their first SQD. of EA-6B planes.

So what replaced the USMC the EA-6B? What is considered to this day a somewhat "controversial" program called MAGTF EW. I'm not going to spend a lot of time on this matter except to quote the following ref. (And yes I read this.) so this is the "big picture"...

Won't let me copy, so just scroll down to just below the 4th picture showing the EA-6B refueling, it's only 2 sentences and you're done.
https://aviationphotodigest.com/wti-1-18/

Let's now continue where I left off with the USMC...

First a refresher from my last post...
1) These next 2 articles are from the USMC.mil website.

2) Program Status (Real time) of the F35B/C from the same named section of the next ref.
"FOC is expected for both variants in the late 2020’s."
https://www.candp.marines.mil/Progra...-Lightning-II/

Now what's to be done...Well again from the same official USMC.mil site they provided the answer concerning USMC aviation into the future.

But again background is required concerning everyone's F-35 version as already posted
1) The "key operational/logistics software "ODIN" will not reach FOC until DEC 2022.

2) Also posted an article discussing a 13 month production delay for the whole F-35 program from late 2018. This might cause some of the below to actually, shift to the right 1-2 years.

Also a factor which I posted in the MBT Thread will be the USMC PLAN 2030 which will reduce the of Squadrons along some plane types to include the F-35B/C.

I do believe that Suhiir will be surprised by what will survive and for how long they'll be around. Most will still be operational through 2030 and maybe slightly beyond.

So having done the daily ops brief for 5 different Admirals in 2 separate tours at COMSUBGRU TEN, I can say this started out as a "top brass" review before being filtered down to the local area Commanders.

This "Power Point" presentation is from NOV 2019, therefore was meant to address current issues from 2020 forward.
This covers all aspects of aviation to include ongoing and future upgrades already planned for. It addresses MAGTF and MAGTF EW which are similar but, different in their overall scope and Weapons.

There is a lot to this, however, I'm primarily limiting myself to the air assets under Section 3 Marine Aviation Platforms and Programs I'm keeping this at KISS. I'm concerned only with the type and operational service aspect.

It is incumbent upon the reader for the rest. And I've read this fully where it touches on game issues and not so much on subsystems beyond service upgrades for said aircraft and helicopters.

I will add 1 year to those end dates (As noted.) based on the current delays to the F-35 Program that affects the whole series i.e. ODIN etc.

Even though I'll add that year (Again maybe.), the F/A 18A might stay as projected. This possibly could affect the F/A 18B as well, due to USMC PLAN 2030 as these plans just don't "pop up" out of nowhere, based on the scope of the Plan normally it takes months or longer to prepare them, so it might be already considered in this brief based on that NOV 2019 release date.

So the...2019 MARINE CORPS AVIATION PLAN
FOCUS...Section 3 Marine Aviation Platforms and Programs

F-35B/C I see no change due to recent Program events and from the USMC "newer" (Compared to this one.) ref that projects FOC in the late 2020's. I'll be a little more optimistic in regards to the USMC because they are further along in the development process then the USN and USAF. From all I can gather to this point...

I see F-35B FOC between JUN 2023+ - DEC 2025.
Again from the earlier posted same source ref.
"FOC is expected for both variants in the late 2020’s."
https://www.candp.marines.mil/Progra...-Lightning-II/

From the "Transition Chart (TC)" Note Block 10B with the following caveat "Right side depicts planned FOC and PAA, but remains event driven." and we are...
EVENT DRIVEN as neither NAVAIR or USMC have announced FOC.

F/A-18 A-D...

From the below ref...
"F/A-18s are, and will remain, the primary bridging platform to F35B/C, with a planned sunset of 2030."

Upgrades contracted through 2023 currently.

Increase TI/GSR w/4th GEN LITENING Pods.

Suhiir you've got some work here that will at least include a small EW increase and maybe weapons changes for you're (USMC) HORNETS.

F/A-18A-END OCT 2023 leaving it as is.

F/A-18A++ (Improved-Mine)-END OCT 2027 possibly could be longer.

F/A-18C/D-END DEC 2030 possibly could be longer.

Next...

AV-8B "HARRIER"...

Upgrades contracted through 2025 currently.

Increase TI/GSR w/4th GEN LITENING Pods.

You have many NEW weapons to use on this platform as noted in here.

END OCT 2027 + 1yr = OCT 2028. This aircraft will benefit from the F-35 delays. There is still plenty of information on the web that due to generous UK offering I posted on several years back, that they'll be around until 2030. This due to the newer airframes the Brits had on their GR9 aircraft.

Skipping down to Helos...

AH-1W...

END OCT 2021.

CH-53E...

Upgrades/Maintenance through end of 2021.

END MAR 2028.

CH-53K...

START FOC... Looking like Mid-2022 at this time from my files and other.

As you scroll up/down USMC other craft are covered KC-130J/UAV's etc. that's on you.

This F-35 sequence of events over the last week has given me work to do on the USN and USAF side of things, hopefully just "tweaking" some aspects such TI/GSR and EW.

Make your USMC planes better. You're selling the CORPS "legacy" aircraft a little "short" I feel.
https://www.aviation.marines.mil/Por...9%20AvPlan.pdf

I'm surprised they stayed up on my PC for about the last 30hrs. :shock:

But I did backup what I had up to 0200 this morning.

Now I have to respond to a guy in Germany who I think wants to buy a book on LEOPARDS from Tankograd in Germany. All I wanted was 2 pieces of information, nothing comes easy or in this case cheap!?!. :p

I'm ready for my walk! :vroom:

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I did mention in my last post that the USMC PLAN 2030 could effect some of what I posted, and now, it has. The reason I left the F/A-18A END date unchanged was in anticipation that PLAN 2030 might cause it to maybe have that date shifted to the left. I figured it would go "sooner than later" and be the first aviation asset to be cut.

It appears I was wrong.

I left also the AH-1W END date untouched as well, per the USMC AVIATION PLAN 2019 not for reason connected to PLAN 2030 but, because that date made sense from a "transition" point of view.

The USMC retired the AH-1W yesterday 19 OCT. 2020 AND FROM REF.2 the final Sortie was flown on...
"The last AH-1W sortie was flown on Oct. 14 by HMLA-773 Detachment A at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana."

So there you have it.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...upercobra-helo
https://seapowermagazine.org/marine-...a-helicopters/

There's plenty more where they came on the web now but, these should be enough.

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Well isn't that interesting.. yesterday... the OOB has them all retired by 2012.....who'd have thunk it?

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I tend to ignore reserve units and legacy units ... also FOC, and look at probable deployments.

Example: At the start of the first Gulf War the USMC had a handful of M1's but acquired enough (regular and HA) that 50% of their fielded tank force (all of 2 battalions) was M1s. So I consider both the M60 ans M1 to be equally available from 1991 thru 1994.

In 1975-6 I was with an active duty unit that still used M14s as their primary (and only) rifle, yet the OOB doesn't show the M14 as being available as an option at that time.

So yes, there are "inaccuracies", but what's "probable" is what the OOB represents not what's "possible" (generally).

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

as with them all but in this case, I was surprised by the 8-year discrepancy

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I can't agree with your logic concerning Reserve Units once called up they are normally attached to Active Units to supplement "manpower" or "equipment" shortages or in the case of the AH-1W earlier this year...

"The last detachment of AH-1Ws to complete a deployment returned earlier this year with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The detachment, temporarily assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), was part of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HMLA-167), based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina."
https://seapowermagazine.org/marine-...a-helicopters/

By your reasoning then, since they don't count, I guess we can get rid all the National Guardsman Units in the USA OOB and free up all those slots.

I can speak of the Army at this point...
"The major differences between the Guard and Reserve have to do with the nature of duty–Reserve members operate under the jurisdiction of the DoD and may be called up to serve in times of war, in expeditionary campaigns, for humanitarian relief, and any other mission-essential function.

National Guard troops can be activated by the Governor of your state, and they may also be called up by the President of the United States."

So those Reserve Units regardless of service branch, will get called up first to respond to a National Emergency.
https://militarybenefits.info/active...erve-or-guard/

Legacy Units are the "bridge" until whatever replaces them, replaces them. And that can take a decade or longer to happen. Therefore they get upgraded to sustain their combat readiness as has been clearly demonstrated.

FOC I don't see how this doesn't matter. I tried to find the response from one of our people out here who shortly after I posted the changes for INDIA's tanks (I remember it was the T-90MS.) for the last patch, he was grateful that those tanks and in particular, the T-90MS dates got changed to reflect RL.

I believe those got entered on receipt of the test beds for evaluation of them.

He frustration dealt with the fact that he plays Pakistan vs India and the AI kept picking those and other tanks NOT yet in service.

As I see it from all my years in Board gaming to early PC (Steel Panthers) games to now was to maintain the equipment as close to RL as possible and then leave to the players to fight them as they desire under historical, current news or any option their imagination can come up with.

And besides concerning FOC, this is...
1) What Don expects of me as the "gold standard" and has been his mantra out here in I don't know how many posts over the years.

2) It goes against my own personal integrity to do otherwise. I will not compromise on that for the sake of expediency or any other reason. You do the job right or you don't do it at all. that's from my up bringing, mentors and my work and military career. Otherwise I wasted my time during the 2019/2020 Campaign as FOC was a big part of that work along with many other factors.

3) In our game reviews we have been "touted" by most of those reviewers for our diligence in updating the game and maintaining the accuracy of our "equipment".

4) Most importantly, it's about the players, that response I got had the whole thing worth while. I've NEVER felt it was about us, but ONLY about the players. That's why I do this and hopefully will be able to continue to do so until JAN/FEB 2026 when I can be a player again.

At least later today is my "HUMP DAY" might be a "double" retirement in 2026, that's an awesome thought!?!

It's very late and I'm tired, so Good Night!

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

More often then not when USMC Reserve units are called up it's JUST the warm bodies, their equipment stays at home, So the vehicles and such used are the same as those used by active duty forces not the odds-n-sods they normally use at home.

I have no clue about the National Guard/US Army. But strongly suspect they're handled very differently to a US Army Reserve unit. And I know in some cases Reserve/NG units exist to provide capabilities that active duty forces lack (example railroad support).

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Many of our escort units in Afghanistan were US Army Reserve units activated for 6 months at a time. Some of these guys identified as Guard also, not sure if there is some sort of dual membership option for the ones that want to deploy. They did the training as a unit before leaving the US.
In this case they had their personal equipment but fell in on things like MRAPs or up-armored SUVs that never left theater.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The USMC Reserve operates the same way.
Your personal equipment you bring with you but ALL weapons and vehicles are issued once you arrive wherever you're going. No real point shipping stuff across country then half way around the world. Just pull it out of the depots, that's what they're there for after all.

I suspect (yes this is a guess) those that were National Guard were transferred to the Reserve for the duration of their deployment because it simplified administration (i.e. no need to send their pay back to their home state/unit in order for it to be in turn sent to the regular army unit handling financial matters in the theater of operation where they're deployed).

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Its sort of drifted off topic but the fact the US probably has more equipment stored around the world than most countries could field takes a bit of processing.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Japan has retired the F-4 Phantom from active service as of a day or so ago. There are about maybe 3 or 4 more still in service with the JASDF, but in a test and evaluation role.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Marks on it. And as he reported 4 will be "test beds" for some aspects of their "future fighter" program and other things. Picked the the following ref. as it's accompanied by a video of the final flight of one of or the first one to be retired back in April 2018.
https://theaviationist.com/2018/04/2...fter-44-years/
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zon...tline-phantoms

What's to come?
They're making room for the F-35A, while still flying the F-16J and the F-15J which has just started or will very soon start, a major modernization program. This all is ahead of the FX-6th GEN fighter of which the first prototypes will be in the air around 2028. Production of the type barring w/o any delays, should start in the early 2030's to start the IOC process.
https://www.popularmechanics.com/mil...w-fighter-jet/

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

National Guard and Army Reserves don't mix together. They are not transferred to the other. This was tried back in 2003, they mixed units from different branches of the Army and that didn't work out as well as they hoped. Mainly because the BS of one branch is better than the other came into play far too often.

Guard also has a shorter rotation than reserves as far as deployment time goes.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/new...y-on-carriers/

The Marine Corps’ first squadron of F-35C Lightning II stealth fighter jets is now fully capable of deploying on board aircraft carriers.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, also known as the Black Knights, announced initial operational capability for the F-35C variant of the joint strike fighter in a press release on Tuesday, calling the platform “the most advanced stealth fighter jets the world has ever seen.”

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

6 months for reserves? Yeah, haven't seen that 9 to 12 months for the Reserves, less for the Guard.

After 2007 units fell in on in-theater equipment, the only things they brought were weapons, gear, and special need items for the mission. Then again unless the fighting is initial day one, units will fall in on equipment already there, unless they need to bring forward new items like Strykers or whatever the new wonder toy of the day is.

National Guard and US Army Reserve units deploy as complete units unless they are split up to fill out other units of the same component and after the mess of the let's mix units in 2003, they don't mingle them together beyond a company working with another company.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Many Squadrons have achieved IOC with the F-35 we currently have them in to soon. And the "Gorilla in the room" is simply that for land based equipment FOC has been always the standard and we've corrected many units from many countries to achieve that standard.

All you have to do is look at the last 2 years of submissions. They were mostly about fixing those same issues.

This has been done in the past as well as was submitted for all other equipment "classes" including this thread.

Every time we rush to get something in due to external or other reasons, we pay a steep price, more so for Don and I would think to an unknown degree Andy.

For one, and to be nice, this "stuff" overclocks my ram!

The clock is running and these type of issues take away from all the equipment that is actually at FOC but ARE NOT in the game because we're chasing these issues.

I mentioned earlier I have such equipment dating back to 2015, I recently found from files kept from a different browser.

ONLY Israel has declared their F-35i at FOC on DEC. 06, 2017 after a year of training and evaluation.
https://www.algemeiner.com/2017/12/0...y-operational/

Second Squadron comes on line operationally on 10 Aug. 2020.
https://www.jewishpress.com/news/isr...al/2020/08/10/

And Israel does what it has always with any foreign piece of equipment they but after "playing with it" awhile, they improve upon it. In this case it took just 4 years to do so in NOV 2020.
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/is...tel-nof-648867
https://theaviationist.com/2020/11/1...just-received/

Remember Israel's Strategic and Tactical situation has never allowed for such things as budget delays, logistical supply issues (ODIN for us as already posted.) but, the most important item of all is their not flying our F-35's and therefore NOT dealing with our issues .

Like INDIA, VIETNAM etc. from one of those above last last patches can only buy the T-90S and NOT the better T-90A or if you wish substitute foreign operated ABRAMS with NO DU armor as a "starter" on that topic.

I hope on this equipment we're not "drifting away from our core values", some won't like what I just wrote, and that's OK with me. But it doesn't change nor should it from how we've operated out here for so many years now.

Well this post has now gotten me in the right frame of mind to fight the "Redman" tomorrow. I feel bad for the person in the suit as our training Lt. likes it when I train the way we're expected to fight. And we got a "new hire" class, should be fun! :D :p

Have a good night/morning all!

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

[quote=Karagin;849134]Typically USMC Reserve units will "fill in" at about company level. So an active duty battalion that's undermanned will fold it's three companies into two then add a reserve company. The same applies to artillery (at battery level) and air (at squadron level).

This OF COURSE doesn't apply to "technical" (electronic maintenance, crypto, intel, and such) jobs where the reserve personnel will be doled out as needed.

Then there are a handful of units unique to the USMC Reserve, like a field hospital (i.e. the USMC version of MASH) and Civil Affairs.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Another thing Israel could careless about, "Intellectual Property", delaying the F-35 from going into full production.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...roperty-rights
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...ucture-changes

Overpayments due substandard parts and more...
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...e-overpayments

And no news about FOC from NAVAIR yet...
https://www.navair.navy.mil/product/F-35-Lightning-II

The F/A-18 Block III under test and evaluation.
https://www.navair.navy.mil/news/Nav...-06022020-0713

I'm falling asleep , so good night and or morning

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Does Isreal still field the F4s?

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

They might still be around, however, I can only confirm that up to 2015 at this time.

I'll have to recheck later after work, which I must get ready for NOW!!

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I cannot find something more official in English, but the Greek Rafale deal has been approved with the first 6 Rafales coming in the first half of 2021.

https://apnews.com/article/turkey-co...45e8f259eb73a8

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

If anyone see's other charts like this for other aircraft let me know. It shows what the possible combinations can be really well.


http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/attac...1&d=1608130837

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

For the Airplane Charts, a search online gave me these by using the weapon loadout chart by aircraft

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Aeraaa here you go!

From my pesky files I'm just for the time being going to provide one source, concerning Greece procuring the Rafale F3-O4T most likely 6 brand new ones and 12 used ones. They will replace only the Mirage 2000 EG/BG.
https://theaviationist.com/2020/09/1...mbat-aircraft/

So bottom-line they'll keep the Mirage 2000-5F Mk2
https://theaviationist.com/2019/12/0...show-of-force/

Also not going away is the following and I think it's awesome...
https://www.milavia.net/specials/haf-117-combat-wing/

That's right, No S**T!! ;)

We're just going to have to keep an eye on this deal, as there is also the possibility Greece might get the Rafale F3-R which reached IOC this past Summer which I'll build at some point as we have time before FOC for France at a minimum.
https://theaviationist.com/2019/12/1...nch-air-force/

Don the next is for you "more directly", be advised I'm building ONE of these for the game in if you will, a NATO version. There was a lot more to this plane then the "dumb bomb" Vietnam or "nuke" penetrator in Europe versions. The F-105 "THUD"...

Attachment 16235

F-22

Attachment 16234

I'm off to bed.

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The current F-35 chart.
https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qim...385e758e38837e

The AGM-65 Maverick is not shown because it's being phased out. But it's replacement is not in the WinSPMBT OOBs so it's still used for game loadouts.

Also this chart is almost 3 years old and NAVAIR has certified weapons not on the chart for use on the F-35 since then.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

:confused::confused:

https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com...issiles-05397/

That's dated Aug 20, 2019 and the weapon in the USA OOB is 217 (which now matches the data of W194 in the USMC OOB )

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

I stand corrected ... as of the time the weapons load layout was published (2018) it was due to be phased out.
Things change.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HjA...ature=emb_logo

Seems SAAB wants to build the Gripen in Canada, now I am not sure if that means some of the production will go to the Canadians or not, but that is normally how these deals work out.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The Gripen would be nice but my guess is they will put this off and upgrade the Hornets we have or go with the Super Hornet. The one engine vs two issue has been and is an important consideration here no matter how reliable the one engine is....it's still only one engine.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The GRIPEN E/F would be a generational step up over the SUPER HORNET E/F in regards to stealth capabilities. It also would be cheaper to operate and to logistically to support and is considered one of the most overall reliable fighters in the world.

But as Don mentioned, there is that decades old issue of 1 versus 2 engines and the HORNET can carry a larger payload.

What SAAB is offering Canada, is exactly what they offered Brazil-jobs, limited technical transfer of data and a production facility in Brazil to build their but, to also assist in production to other foreign powers that but or need their existing GRIPENs to be maintained.
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/n...tion-in-brazil
https://www.key.aero/article/gripen-...-begins-brazil
https://www.saab.com/newsroom/storie...cone-to-brazil

Canada...
https://www.fliegerfaust.com/militar...644025181.html

About the plane...
Brazil flew it's first GRIPEN E/Designated F-39 GRIPEN E on 24 SEP. 2020. This plane was built by SAAB and shipped in from SWEDEN.
https://theaviationist.com/2020/09/2...ime-in-brazil/

Info...
https://airplanesdaily.com/saab-gripen-e-boxer-jet/
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/bu...ter-jet-140727

Regards,
Pat
:capt:

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

It's a huge issue but the jobs that might be created given the economic downturn due to the response to Covid *might* ( maybe..) tip the balance but personally.....I still think the argument against in the political and military back rooms will be the single-engine.

We have a LOT of "middle of nowhere" to theoretically patrol ( more than most nations' entire area ) and losing one engine when you have two gets you back to base but not when you only have one to start with. What one engine gets you is a search and rescue operation and a crash investigation ( ...in a remote area ) and that attitude is deeply ingrained

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

Seems Britain is looking to replace their Tornados and such with the new Tempest.

https://www.businessinsider.com/brit...insider-mildef

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

For most countries I think its the best option as they don't have the budget & its cheap to buy & operate. Means they might be able to fly them & maintain operational readiness.

Regarding extra stealth capabilities (excluding F-22) are they much use unless you are attacking or the enemy is low tech?
Stealthy from the front is not much use on a patrol because your presenting other facings.
My thought in this day & age every patrol is a data gathering exercise for the enemy eventually they will have a software update to track it once it turns head on as they will know what they are looking for.

Re: Jets & Planes but no UAV's here.
 

The same reason the US Navy and USMC are fond of two engine aircraft. REALLY hard to swim 500km back to your carrier.

However, modern jet engines are pretty reliable so that's not as big an issue as it use to be.