Updated older design
- Thread starter Hobbit55
- Start date
I don't think so. It would still be quite costfull to research and design the upgrade and the most expense would be in the integration. For example the power generation requirements would be considerably larger than the Harriers specs. Then you have to integrate everything
Todjaeger
Potstirrer
For something like the Harrier, I doubt it would be cost effective.
Avionics/electronics and the associated systems integration is one of the really costly (and difficulty, hence the costly bit) areas of weapons development. For an aircraft like the Harrier with STOVL capability, it would be a bit more difficult than normal since either the complicated manual system would need to be built, or a more automatic system.
Less complex aircraft, which are intended for a somewhat different operating environment might be viable however. I specifically have a new/updated version of the A-1 Skyraider in mind for CAS/COIN operations which might have some ability to use PGM's, but little requirement for datalinking or some of the other avionics which could complicate the aircraft.
Masquerader
Member
A number of companies this decade have been awarded contracts to upgrade the B-52's vintage 1950s and 1960s avionics and systems ahead of the pending re-engining of the B-52 with F130 turbofans:
theaviationist.com
www.thedefensepost.com
Let's Talk About The New Images That Show What The Upgraded B-52 Will Look Like
Even if the first flight of the upgraded bomber is still years away, we now know how it will look like after the largest modification program in its
theaviationist.com
Boeing Selects Collins Aerospace to Upgrade B-52 Bombers
Boeing has selected Collins Aerospace to upgrade the B-52 bomber aircraft by integrating a new electric power generation system.
www.thedefensepost.com