Some considerations of optimum weights of fighter aircraft

Abstract

"Over the past ten to fifteen years there has been a tendency for fighter aircraft to grow in size, complexity and cost. This tendency became so marked that there has been a reaction towards reduced weight, greater simplicity and design economy intended to keep down the cost. Of late, both military authorities as well as design experts in many countries have paid considerable attention to philosophy of the light weight strike fighter. There is an opposing point of view which maintains that a fighter cannot be made too ""Light"" if it is to have good combat value. There are two major factors involved, namely cost and combat effectiveness. How are these factors to be weighed and an optimum design achieved? The problem is extremely difficult since no simple yardstick has been established to measure combat effectiveness. The armament carried, the electronic aids available for combat and precision navigations, the performance of the aircraft, its handling qualities and versatility of the aircraft for use in different roles during unforeseen exigencies are all factors of critical significance. A slight superiority in one respect or other might mean the difference between victory and defeat. The discussion of the light weight fighter concept has more or less been on a theoretical plane so far. Besides, opinions differ violently as to what exactly is meant when we say that a fighter is of light weight. Should its weight be 6,000lbs. or 18,000lbs.? These are all called light weight fighters by different countries in accordance with their own tactical concepts. The purpose of this paper is to highlight some relevant points and to discuss their technical implications.