TaimiKhan
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Hi,
I believe that a lots of posters are being carried away by the idea that newer is better. RD 93 is a proven engine with a successful track history. you simply just don't dump an engine because there is something new out there.
If the F 14 tomcat could do the job for being labelled under powered so can the JF 17. I would rather have the upgraded version of the rd93 that the russians are developing---if need be.
A lesser powered engine will not stop the jf 17 for doing its job---it will be due to a lack of electronic warfare and weapons package.
Sir, we know RD-93 is a tested platform, but its track record has been pretty bad too. Here are a few lines from what the IAF went through when they purchased Mig-29s with RD-33s.
"There were extensive problems encountered in operational and maintenance due to the large number of pre-mature failures of engines, components, and systems. Of the total of 189 engines in service, 139 engines (74% failed pre-maturely and had been withdraw from service by July 1992, thus effectively shutting down operations. 62 of these engines had not even accomplished 50% of their 300 hours first overhaul point. Thus the desired serviceability showed a steadily decreasing trend."
You can further read here:
Fighter Aicraft, MiG-29/4
RD-33 Engine & Design Problems - Key Publishing Ltd Aviation Forums
Russians are making the new RD-33Mks, but problem would be that would they be willing to sell it or come under Indian pressure and not sell.
The Russian engine has big ?s for different reasons.
WS-13 may be new and after coming into operation, it will further go through its maturity, but in the end we would be independent of the issues which we face while using the Russian engines.
And as per specifications wise, WS-13 so far looks better when compared to RD-93s.
It may give us problems in the start as it would be a new engine, but in the long run, it will be benefiting us a lot.