DID would like to thank the readers who informed us of reports that Brazil's President Lula has authorized Brazilian Air Force Commander Juniti Saito to restart the F-X program in January 2008. "F-X2" aims to acquire 36 next generation fighters for the Brazilian Air Force, which is currently depending on Super Tucano/ALX surveillance and light attack turboprops, AMX subsonic light fighters, modernized F-5BRs whose design dates back to the 1960s era, and a squadron of 12 Mirage 2000s built in the early 1980s. A previous 2001 F-X competition was put on hold in 2003, and then canceled in February 2004 due to budget difficulties and political issues; the budget for the current iteration is said to be $2.2 billion.

Could the words "Brazilian fighter" begin evoking images unrelated to the Gracies? A proposed 50% boost to Brazil's defense budget could be on its way to accomplishing that, and more. While the Navy and Army are also in line for funds to replace broken-down equipment, the fighters will be a critical centerpiece of the Forca Aerea Brazilia's efforts. The aircraft under consideration are mostly the same set that was considered last time – but the competition may have become more important to at least one of the competitors…..............................