EADS Mako/HEAT

The EADS Mako was a project for a jet trainer that was developed in several European air forces in the context of the Euro - trainer program, but not realized. The Mako is also known under the names " Mako -LCA " ( "Light Combat Aircraft" ) or " HEAT" ( " High Energy Advanced Trainer ").

Description

The origins of the Mako back to the AT- 2000 program has been developed on the definition out of the Mako. As a potential operator of the Mako Germany, France, Spain, Finland, Sweden, Greece and the United Arab Emirates to support the project, which is why EADS joined numerous supplier contracts with companies from these countries (eg Diehl Aerospace, Alenia Aermacchi, Dassault Aviation, Saab, etc.. ).

EADS planned as the first Eurojet EJ200 engine of Euro Fighter Typhoon to use. This plan, however, was abandoned for unknown reasons early. Instead, reference should be made to the General Electric F414M turbofan. This should be developed by Volvo since these had already experience with the adaptation of the F414 to the Saab Gripen.

To be political in European defense projects needs, EADS planned production at nine locations in seven countries to distribute. However, it did not come to the United Arab Emirates since 2009 left the project and therefore created a funding gap. The original date for the first flight was initially postponed until 2010. In the meantime, however, came increasingly to doubt the need for the project, as the market for jet trainer with types such as the M -346 "Master " T -50 " Golden Eagle" or Yak- 130 "In the midst " was covered. This made export success of the Makos unlikely and ultimately led to the discontinuation of the project.

Specifications

Arming

Since the Mako was never realized, the armament options were never intended final. The last known plans foresaw the installation of the "Mauser BK- 27" gun. Furthermore, a payload of up to 4500 kg of seven external attachment points should be possible.