HellFireIndo
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Only Russian fanboys will be affected by the decision to trade Su-35 for F-16V, many TNI-AU officers actually prefers Vipers over Su-35, i'd argue that the minority faction in the Kemhan and TNI is actually the Su-35 supporters, if not then there will be incentive to prioritize Su-35 acquisition, but there isn't, it's mostly just RR who repeatedly said things about "it will come soon" but nothing happened. Embargo era baby-boomers did have some worry about embargo and shit, but let's face it, other choices simply don't make much sense, and consider that it's no Orba, there's no real issue about Indonesian government, and that the Pacific is getting hotter. US is not that stupid to embargo a potential partner in diplomacy of the region, the recent diplomat assignment is one sign of that, they would not consider us for Vipers and "Joint Strike Fighter" if they are that embargo-happy.Politics, converting SU35 to F16V can surely bring ammo to domestic opposition which can create a mess on this politics "cooling down" after election period. And I believe we all know how the perception going towards usa inside our own population and inside own military faction. Some military personal who had strived on embargo era most likely dont want this to happen. Or at the very least opposing in a strong manner which create another problems. So expect longer delay
Politics aside, I am not sure whats going on rusky military industry as general. I know some of them have been hit hard with economic downfall, embargo, etc. But the recent offer to India which include subs, SU-57 joint development, etc might reflect how their def industry shape now. Its like "obral", "rindu order", which is not common for them in relation to their culture. This brings me up to your statement "...not to mention that we rely on unreliable and sanctioned supplier...". Perhaps looking at it making me feel like the chance of getting it becoming smaller. Their weaken military industry (if its the case) can reduce and limit our option/leverage in dealing stuffs. I think SBY knows this by doing heavy purchased from them, but it takes two to tango. Perhaps in this case they might not know how to tango
Also, none of Indonesian faction truly are pro-China or Russia, even some most staunch opposition figure are US educated and some even openly supports "westernisasi", i personallu disagree with that, but you get the figure.
Russia today is not that "thousand tanks, hundred planes" Russia, it's now "hundreds tanks, dozens planes, budget cut" Russia. Even HAL AMCA/SU-57 cooperation with India was terminated, and India now seeking another partner for advanced fighter program, Tempest program with UK is their prime choice now (remember that European programs are prone to "problems"), the Hyped T-14 Armata? barely over 100 ordered, in a country who in it's heyday build 1000 tanks like no tomorrow. Unless you are China or India, hoarding Russian stuff is risky and troublesome, there's no doubt of that, furthermore their industry is severely weakened by stagnating economy, budget cuts and economic+diplomatic sanctions, what else would go you through for just 11 Su-35s?
I would prefer MLU, MRO and munitions purchase to be of a separate budget entirely, getting more airframes is important for the sake of MEF and delaying it would be a trouble in the long-term. I support the idea of getting more planes as the priority, as soon there will be quite a lot of vacant slot due to the retirement of Hawks and Tigers, while at the same time not committing enough to the Viper idea would get us in the far back line of Lockheed Martin's production queue, they won't come within MEF 3's timeframe. Also take note that whatever it's Su-35, F-16V etc..they are expected to come before KFX/IFX program finished, as we will be busy with IFX's acquisition by then, having the Viper deal unfinished by 2024 will be a trouble.
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