mig 35 is undoubtedly the most economical, unit cost of around 35 million
in contrast , eurofighter costs around 90 million per unit !!!
Of course , better quality is always preffered, but a difference of 60 million cannot just be ignored. We are not that rich yet.
1 typhoon would buy like 3 mig 35s. Am i wrong?
IN pays around $46 million for one Mig 29K, the Mig 35 is a new fighter with latest techs (AESA, TVC), so it should cost hardly the same, or even more. Not to forget the western avionics upg that will be added and if you add the operational costs, where the Mig is one of the most expensive once, there will be maybe a ratio of 1,5 Mig for 1 EF at the end and the EF is the most expensive once. Compare it with Gripen NG and the Mig will lose in terms of costs, even with F16, or F18 it will be hard to compete, Rafale should be more expensive, but clearly more capable too.
If IAF/MoD/GoI wants just a cheap Mig 21 replacement without any focus on strike, or commonality to IN and of course no political advantages, the Gripen NG will win.
If IAF/MoD/GoI search a capable strike fighter that is cost-effective and offers political advantages, but no useful ToT, restrictions, control and take the risk of sanctions, they will go for F18SH
If IAF/MoD/GoI wants the max of advantages in all fields and they are ready to pay some more for it, they will go for Rafale