Central/South American Military News, Reports, Data, etc.
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Brazilian Sao Paulo (A12) back to Sea after extensive refit, and work up of her upgraded Air Wing
Brazilian Aircraft Carrier, Sao Paulo, A12, looking very ship shape after refit/overhaul
The Brazilian aircraft carrier underwent an extensive overahaul and modernization between 2005 and 2010. (This latest information is based on articles through 2012 from Base Militar, Reuters, Flight Gobal, etc.). After the refit, it wnet through a prolonged period of working up, having its airwing upgraded and a short stint of repairs from a small fire in 2012, but is now back out to sea. The work accomplished during the major refit included all of the following:
1. Inspection and repair of the steam turbines
2. Maintenance of the surface condensers
3. Retubing of boilers
4. Repair of two high-pressure compressors.
5. Revision of the AC electrical generator.
6. Maintenance of pumps, valves, and structural items.
7. Addition of two API oil-water separators.
8. Installation of two water cooling units.
9. Upgrade of the chemical oxygen generator.
10. Repair and treatment of oil tanks.
11. Replacement of the Naval Tactical Data System
12. Installation of a closed-circuit television surveillance camera system.
13. Installation of an IFF transponder.
14. Installation of a MAGE system (ESM).
15. Flight deck inspection, repair, and painting.
16. Modernization and upgrade of the Optical Landing System processing unit.
17 Overhaul, maintenance and rrevision of the aircraft catapults.
These upgrades were completed by late 2009. A significant purchase of spare parts for the vessel was also accomplished inocnjunction with these upgrades and overhauls. and the São Paulo was initially operational by August 2010.
In addition, the twelve Brazilian Navy A-4 Skyhawks were also upgraded by Embraer at a cost of $140 million. These upgrade was similar to the ones done for the AMX and F-5EM aircraft of the Brazilian Air Force. The program included restoring the aircraft and their current systems, as well as implementing new avionics, radar (specifically the Elta 2032 radar system), power production, and autonomous oxygen generating systems. Weapons included in the upgrade were the MAA-1B, Python 4, and the Derby AAMS.
Brazil also purchased ex-Australian and ex-Uruguayan airframes EX-USN C-1 Trader airframes, for conversion into AEW planes and Tanker aircraft. Nine aircraft were purchased in total. All of the planes were upgraded to S-2T Turbo Tracker configuration with Honeywell TPE 331-14GR engines. Of the nine airframes, two were for tanker conversion to refuel the A-4 Skyhawks, four were for AEW covnersion, two were for cargo aircraft conversions and the other was for spare parts.
The Brazilian Navy contracted Marsh Aviation to convert the four upgraded S-2T Turbo Trackers to an Airborne Early Warning (AEW) configuration, and the other tankers and cargo aircraft. The AEW requirement was to have a radar range of 250 miles at 25,000 feet. Operational lifespan for the airframes was to be a minimum of 10 years. They were expected to be ready by late 2012.
Finally, in addition to all of this, The São Paulo's SH-3 helicopter fleet was to be replaced by six S-70B Seahawk helicopters. They were purchased in 2008, upgraded, and refurbished for delivery. The helicopters and a package of engines and support equipment were delivered in 2009.
At the end of 2010, sea trials began, and as of 2011 the São Paulo had been evaluated by the CIASA (Inspection Commission and Training Advisory). She rejoined the fleet in late 2013.
A great article about the upgrade into 2008 of the Sao Paulo can be found at the following link (you can translate that page into almost any language):
A good article about the purchase of the C-1A Traders for conversion to S-2T Turbotrackers and then into AEW, tanker, and cargo versions can be found here from late 2010:
DCNS was contracted to do further work on the Sao Paulo's forward catapult in November 2013, to check and test it, which they performed successfully in December 2013. Here's their press release about it:
At this time, after the Brazil chose the Saab Grippen as their future fighter aircraft, there is a lot of interest, and even intent, on having Sea Grippens be purchased for the carrier to either completely replace the A-4s or to compliement them. If they have a wing of up to 12 or even 18 Sea Grippens operate from the carrier with modern S-2 AEW aircraft, they will have a very potent carrier for Brazil that will give them significant experience over the next ten years until they bring onboard a new carrier that they are planning...along the lines of the DCNS PA2 design that was proposed for the French Navy but that they, to this date, have not elected to build, but which Brazil is seriously considering as a replacement for the Sao Paulo.
Brazilian Aircraft Carrier, Sao Paulo, A12, looking very ship shape after refit/overhaul
The Brazilian aircraft carrier underwent an extensive overahaul and modernization between 2005 and 2010. (This latest information is based on articles through 2012 from Base Militar, Reuters, Flight Gobal, etc.). After the refit, it wnet through a prolonged period of working up, having its airwing upgraded and a short stint of repairs from a small fire in 2012, but is now back out to sea. The work accomplished during the major refit included all of the following:
1. Inspection and repair of the steam turbines
2. Maintenance of the surface condensers
3. Retubing of boilers
4. Repair of two high-pressure compressors.
5. Revision of the AC electrical generator.
6. Maintenance of pumps, valves, and structural items.
7. Addition of two API oil-water separators.
8. Installation of two water cooling units.
9. Upgrade of the chemical oxygen generator.
10. Repair and treatment of oil tanks.
11. Replacement of the Naval Tactical Data System
12. Installation of a closed-circuit television surveillance camera system.
13. Installation of an IFF transponder.
14. Installation of a MAGE system (ESM).
15. Flight deck inspection, repair, and painting.
16. Modernization and upgrade of the Optical Landing System processing unit.
17 Overhaul, maintenance and rrevision of the aircraft catapults.
These upgrades were completed by late 2009. A significant purchase of spare parts for the vessel was also accomplished inocnjunction with these upgrades and overhauls. and the São Paulo was initially operational by August 2010.
In addition, the twelve Brazilian Navy A-4 Skyhawks were also upgraded by Embraer at a cost of $140 million. These upgrade was similar to the ones done for the AMX and F-5EM aircraft of the Brazilian Air Force. The program included restoring the aircraft and their current systems, as well as implementing new avionics, radar (specifically the Elta 2032 radar system), power production, and autonomous oxygen generating systems. Weapons included in the upgrade were the MAA-1B, Python 4, and the Derby AAMS.
Brazil also purchased ex-Australian and ex-Uruguayan airframes EX-USN C-1 Trader airframes, for conversion into AEW planes and Tanker aircraft. Nine aircraft were purchased in total. All of the planes were upgraded to S-2T Turbo Tracker configuration with Honeywell TPE 331-14GR engines. Of the nine airframes, two were for tanker conversion to refuel the A-4 Skyhawks, four were for AEW covnersion, two were for cargo aircraft conversions and the other was for spare parts.
The Brazilian Navy contracted Marsh Aviation to convert the four upgraded S-2T Turbo Trackers to an Airborne Early Warning (AEW) configuration, and the other tankers and cargo aircraft. The AEW requirement was to have a radar range of 250 miles at 25,000 feet. Operational lifespan for the airframes was to be a minimum of 10 years. They were expected to be ready by late 2012.
Finally, in addition to all of this, The São Paulo's SH-3 helicopter fleet was to be replaced by six S-70B Seahawk helicopters. They were purchased in 2008, upgraded, and refurbished for delivery. The helicopters and a package of engines and support equipment were delivered in 2009.
At the end of 2010, sea trials began, and as of 2011 the São Paulo had been evaluated by the CIASA (Inspection Commission and Training Advisory). She rejoined the fleet in late 2013.
A great article about the upgrade into 2008 of the Sao Paulo can be found at the following link (you can translate that page into almost any language):
A good article about the purchase of the C-1A Traders for conversion to S-2T Turbotrackers and then into AEW, tanker, and cargo versions can be found here from late 2010:
DCNS was contracted to do further work on the Sao Paulo's forward catapult in November 2013, to check and test it, which they performed successfully in December 2013. Here's their press release about it:
At this time, after the Brazil chose the Saab Grippen as their future fighter aircraft, there is a lot of interest, and even intent, on having Sea Grippens be purchased for the carrier to either completely replace the A-4s or to compliement them. If they have a wing of up to 12 or even 18 Sea Grippens operate from the carrier with modern S-2 AEW aircraft, they will have a very potent carrier for Brazil that will give them significant experience over the next ten years until they bring onboard a new carrier that they are planning...along the lines of the DCNS PA2 design that was proposed for the French Navy but that they, to this date, have not elected to build, but which Brazil is seriously considering as a replacement for the Sao Paulo.
Miragedriver
Brigadier
Quote from Defense Industry Daily:
“In 2001, Elbit Systems began work under contracts for the Brazilian F-5 Aircraft Modernization Program. The program calls for the upgrade of 46 F-5 aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force. Our contracts for the program are with Embraer and the Brazilian Government, with a total value of approximately $230 million to be performed over an eight-year period. The contract with Embraer provides for an avionics upgrade, which includes an EW suite, mission computers, helmet mounted system, radar, displays and other avionics products. Delivery of production aircraft began in 2005. In January 2007, Elbit Systems was awarded an additional order to integrate further advanced capabilities in the F-5 aircraft. The contract with the Brazilian Government covers a logistic support program including establishment of an in-country maintenance centre based at AEL.”
The Northrop F-5E and F-5F were incorporated into FAB at the beginning of the 1970s. With a further 12 aircraft purchased from Jordan in the early 2000s. F-5EM/FM enhancements involve a wide range of internal systems, but Elbit and Embraer were helped by the smaller, lighter nature of modern electronics. The only noticeable external change to the aircraft is the new and larger nose cone, to accommodate the larger Grifo radar antenna. Inside, however, it’s a whole new fighter.
Hardware & Comms: Aerial refuelling probe installed, SELEX’s modern Grifo radar, modern radar warning systems and countermeasures dispensers, improved IFF (Identification, Friend or Foe), a data link for exchanging information with ground systems or Brazil’s R-99 surveillance aircraft. Two modern computer systems run the avionics and combat systems, along with a modern mission planning system and virtual in-flight training systems that can simulate a wide variety of situations.
Pilot Performance: A “glass cockpit” of 3 multifunctional digital colour displays, DASH Helmet Mounted Display integration and equipment, a cockpit-mounted Head Up Display, plus HOTAS (Hands on Stick & Throttle) Controls, fuel management systems, redundant GPS navigation, an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), and newer ejection seats.
All displays are compatible with night vision goggles, and the combined effect of the changes turns Brazil’s F-5s from daytime, fair-weather fighters to day/night, all-weather aircraft. As a further benefit, the combination of the Griffon radar and Elbit cockpit and computers gives the upgraded F-5s commonality with Brazil’s “A-29″/ EMB-314 Super Tucano light attack turboprops and “A-1A”/ AMX fighters, which are also the subject of upgrade contracts involving Embraer and Elbit.
Weapons: After the upgrades, F-5 EM/FM fighters can carry a wider range of weapons, including RAFAEL’s Derby beyond visual range air-air missiles, Brazilian Piranha and Israeli and Python short range air-air missiles, and laser-guided bombs. In exchange, they lose 1 of their 2 initial 20mm cannons.
Embraer and Elbit have been cooperating in a number of areas, and LAAD 2011 deepened that relationship by creating a joint venture to market unmanned air systems in Brazil. Elbit’s Hermes 450 UAV is already in use with the FAB. With the new F-5s slated to serve for another 15 years, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a future upgrade add data streaming and control capabilities for compatible UAV drones.
“In 2001, Elbit Systems began work under contracts for the Brazilian F-5 Aircraft Modernization Program. The program calls for the upgrade of 46 F-5 aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force. Our contracts for the program are with Embraer and the Brazilian Government, with a total value of approximately $230 million to be performed over an eight-year period. The contract with Embraer provides for an avionics upgrade, which includes an EW suite, mission computers, helmet mounted system, radar, displays and other avionics products. Delivery of production aircraft began in 2005. In January 2007, Elbit Systems was awarded an additional order to integrate further advanced capabilities in the F-5 aircraft. The contract with the Brazilian Government covers a logistic support program including establishment of an in-country maintenance centre based at AEL.”
The Northrop F-5E and F-5F were incorporated into FAB at the beginning of the 1970s. With a further 12 aircraft purchased from Jordan in the early 2000s. F-5EM/FM enhancements involve a wide range of internal systems, but Elbit and Embraer were helped by the smaller, lighter nature of modern electronics. The only noticeable external change to the aircraft is the new and larger nose cone, to accommodate the larger Grifo radar antenna. Inside, however, it’s a whole new fighter.
Hardware & Comms: Aerial refuelling probe installed, SELEX’s modern Grifo radar, modern radar warning systems and countermeasures dispensers, improved IFF (Identification, Friend or Foe), a data link for exchanging information with ground systems or Brazil’s R-99 surveillance aircraft. Two modern computer systems run the avionics and combat systems, along with a modern mission planning system and virtual in-flight training systems that can simulate a wide variety of situations.
Pilot Performance: A “glass cockpit” of 3 multifunctional digital colour displays, DASH Helmet Mounted Display integration and equipment, a cockpit-mounted Head Up Display, plus HOTAS (Hands on Stick & Throttle) Controls, fuel management systems, redundant GPS navigation, an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), and newer ejection seats.
All displays are compatible with night vision goggles, and the combined effect of the changes turns Brazil’s F-5s from daytime, fair-weather fighters to day/night, all-weather aircraft. As a further benefit, the combination of the Griffon radar and Elbit cockpit and computers gives the upgraded F-5s commonality with Brazil’s “A-29″/ EMB-314 Super Tucano light attack turboprops and “A-1A”/ AMX fighters, which are also the subject of upgrade contracts involving Embraer and Elbit.
Weapons: After the upgrades, F-5 EM/FM fighters can carry a wider range of weapons, including RAFAEL’s Derby beyond visual range air-air missiles, Brazilian Piranha and Israeli and Python short range air-air missiles, and laser-guided bombs. In exchange, they lose 1 of their 2 initial 20mm cannons.
Embraer and Elbit have been cooperating in a number of areas, and LAAD 2011 deepened that relationship by creating a joint venture to market unmanned air systems in Brazil. Elbit’s Hermes 450 UAV is already in use with the FAB. With the new F-5s slated to serve for another 15 years, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a future upgrade add data streaming and control capabilities for compatible UAV drones.
$230 Million for 46 aircraft means $5 million per aircraft, which is pretty good.
But, apparently there is also a second contract which we do not read how much that one if for.
So, here's the question. Is that list of all of those "goodies," (which is a good list BTW) for the intial contract alone, or for both contracts combined?
If they got all of that for $5 million per aircraft, that looks very good and turns the venerable F-5s into much more modern aircraft, lifing them well out of the 3rd generation category from my perspective.
Miragedriver
Brigadier
Thank you.
The aerial refuelling probe and the SELEX’s modern Grifo radar were installed previously. The $US5 million per aircraft include the rest, but does not include the missiles, helmets, pods and associated equipment, munitions and support for the mentioned items.
To bad no one (in the west) is willing to make an F-5, or an F-20 anymore.
I am sure that Northrup could build an upgraded F-20...call it the Tigershark II or something.
But who would they sell it to?
The US is not going to buy it. Really major US allies are being fed the F-35, intermediate ar elooking at the Advanced F-18, 3rd tier allies the refurbished F-16s.
This leads to the same problem the F-20 Tigershark had to begin with...I competed with the F-16 then, and it would still be competing with it. Northrup made a very decent, cheaper aircraft available to the market for 6 years, hoping smaller countries at the time would buy it.
And it should have sold. And it was a VERY DECENT aircraft.
But nobody bought it and Northrup took a 1.2 billion dollar bath.
Before they would do it again, they would have to ensure that they had a solid, acceptable buyer in hand, and that they would get support from the industry and the US government.
Still, the F-20 was a great aircraft and I really was saddened that no one took it up.
Those pics show the aircraft with Sidewinders, AMRAMMs and Mavericks.
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TerraN_EmpirE
Tyrant King
not to mention the market is now being flooded with flight trainers that can perform to the same capacity as F20.
Miragedriver
Brigadier
I am sure that Northrup could build an upgraded F-20...call it the Tigershark II or something.
But who would they sell it to?
The US is not going to buy it. Really mjor US allies are being fed the F-35, intermediate ar elooking at the Advanced F-18, 3rd tier allies the refurbished F-16s.
This leads to the same problem the F-20 Tigershark had to begin with. They made a very decent, cheaper aircraft available to the market for 6 years, hoping smaller countries at the time would buy it. And it was a VERY DECENT aircraft. But nobody did and Northrup took a 1.2 billion dollar bath.
Before they would do it again, they would have to ensure that they had a solid, acceptable buyer in hand, and that they would get support from the industry and the US government.
Still, the F-20 was a great aircraft and I really was saddened that no one took it up.
Those pics show the aircraft with Sidewinders, AMRAMMs and Mavericks.
Very True.
I can see a couple of nations that would purchase the aircraft and some that could have purchased the aircraft but went on to develop their own.
Nations that would by it if they could:
Taiwan (150+/-)
Philippines (two Squadrons)
Turkey (100)
Morocco (two Squadrons)
Egypt (100)
Jordan (two or three Squadrons)
New Iraqi Air Force (100)
Argentina (three Squadrons)
Colombia (two Squadrons)
Brazil (purchased Gripen for Mirage 2000 replacement but will need to replace the F-5s) (50+ aircraft)
Potential: 650 aircraft+/-
Nations that could have purchased:
South Korea (developed the AT-50 fairly comparable) (150+)
India (developed the Tejas) (150+)
South Africa (purchased Gripen) (two Squadrons)
Switzerland (purchased Gripen and F-18) (three Squadrons)
Potential: 400 aircraft+/-
I imagine I may have missed a few nations, but sales could have been around 1000 aircraft.
kwaigonegin
Colonel
F-20 never had a chance because of the F-16 and politics. There were very powerful men from Forth Worth with tremendous influence in DC and there is no way they've would've allowed the F-20 to canniballized F-16 sales.
You coupled that with 2 prototypes crashing and F-20's fate was sealed!
Taiwan was the best hope for F20 but when the the US refused to sell they decided to go to the IDF Ching Kuo route and later once the ban was lifted F-16. By then the F-20 was all but mere memories.
The F-20 in terms of flight performance was actually superior to the F-16 Alpha. IMHO the Tigershark is one of the best fighters the USAF never bought
Miragedriver
Brigadier
F-20 never had a chance because of the F-16 and politics. There were very powerful men from Forth Worth with tremendous influence in DC and there is no way they've would've allowed the F-20 to canniballized F-16 sales.
You coupled that with 2 prototypes crashing and F-20's fate was sealed!
Taiwan was the best hope for F20 but when the the US refused to sell they decided to go to the IDF Ching Kuo route and later once the ban was lifted F-16. By then the F-20 was all but mere memories.
The F-20 in terms of flight performance was actually superior to the F-16 Alpha. IMHO the Tigershark is one of the best fighters the USAF never bought
I hate when politics is involved in engineering decision. The result is almost always a compromise or the selection of an inferior design. Not to say the F-16 was inferior, just that the F-20 could have provided the same or more for less money.