OT: Pick a Fighter for Ukraine

[Raellus]

Originally Posted by Tegyrius

Going beyond the poll's parameters (because apparently that's the theme of this thread), I also would consider the Gripen a candidate. While its disadvantages in cost and ubiquity have been amply discussed in another current thread, it has the political advantage of coming from another non-NATO nation, which may be important if Ukraine clings to its ostensible neutral posture in the postwar years (and it's also in Visegrad Group member service).

Oh, it's definitely within the poll parameters. It was mentioned in the article and included amongst the poll options. The Gripen would probably be the most politically acceptable option to Moscow, coming, as it would be, from a nominally neutral nation. This could be important, as Putin will probably baulk at an infusion of US-made fighter aircraft.

Another benefit of the Gripen is that it's designed to operate from ad hoc airstrips like highways, and to be maintained by conscripts. Given the tactics that the UAF is using in the current conflict (see Post #17 in this thread), those capabilities could be a boon in a future one.

I'd be happy to see Ukraine get significant numbers of any of the western fighter types mooted (except for the Mirage 2000, which is the least capable and closest to obsolescence).

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