In my previous post, I listed a few aircraft that were retired too soon. But in light of technological advances this must be modified...my new roster....
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| F-14 |
Think about the capabilities of this beast with modern engines, AESA radar in that huge nose, it already had FLIR but add to it a modern derivative...and then add the possibilities with small diameter bombs and you have an early 4th gen that could compete with anything flying...they gave up on it way too soon.
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| S-3 Viking |
The Viking. Hoover. First real deal multi-role platform in Navy service. Name one airplane that served in the Anti-Sub, Anti-Surface, Refueling, Attack, and Electronic warfare roles besides the S-3. You can't. It was an original, its still available and should be put back into service. Especially with the threat of Chinese subs.
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| C-141 |
Criticized by many but only because they never understood its role. Strategic long range airlift. Fast, and long ranged, it could carry tons of paratroopers to far off lands so they could do their LGOPs thing (Little Groups of Paratroopers rampaging across the country side). The C-141 filled the role between the C-5 and the C-130...the C-17 is adequate but geared more toward moving gear. The C-141 has longer legs, is a better people mover and with modern engines would be even more effective.
I'm sure their are many more. You'll notice that airplanes from our allies aren't included. If you have good candidates, then send them my way.
