According to the minister, the most controversial matter among the suppliers is the technology transfer issue and he emphasized that, in this area, the United States doesn't a have a favorable history.
"The trouble with the United States," he stated, "are past issues. The past is a big example of technology transfer embargo. We experience this here today at the Cetex."
Jobim revealed that during his visit to the technological center he heard reports by military men stating that American companies would supply technology for the finishing of military equipments, such as batteries and propellers, only in ten years.
While the quote is unclear, and I think intentionally so, I believe that this is a shot across the bow regarding the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet's AESA radar, the APG-79.Truth be told, with the obvious issues with the Superbug's aerodynamics, it's the slowest of the three finalists, and the under-wing environment is noisy, hence the "splayed" arrangement of its stores pylons (see picture), required for safe stores separation, which increases drag.
Additionally, it's significantly larger size vs. its competitors, about 20% more than the Rafale, and about double the Gripen, which necessarily increases the cost per flight hour, makes it clear that its sensor suite, and the ability for Brazil to modify these systems to meet its needs, becomes paramount to Boeing's bid.
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